Carlos P.

“My Club has taught me that I can be whatever I want to be. I should always dream big and go get it. I am ready to represent our dreamers.”

Born in the Dominican Republic, Carlos remembers waking up to wonder whether he had electricity before heading to school each morning. Carlos’ family came to the United States when he was just 5 years old. Learning English in the first grade, Carlos was constantly reminded of the importance of an education. He started coming to the Boys & Girls Club as a volunteer in the kindercare program, where he discovered his passion for education.

Carlos prides himself not just on academic achievement, but also on his civic engagement. He helped found the Clifton Student Union, which is completely student-run, student-led and student-oriented, providing representation to Clifton’s Education Committee. In this capacity, he’s rewritten the school dress code, addressed the lack of AP classes and led a peaceful march of more than 350 students advocating for fair funding.

Carlos will be the first in his family to attend college this fall when he heads to Dartmouth College. His “American dream” is to become a Supreme Court Justice.