This month, we chat with Ravenswood I Dreamer Alum Jamie Caceres. A big thanks to Jamie for sharing her story!
Dreamer Alum Jamie Caceres
Name: Jamie Caceres
Dreamer Cohort: Ravenswood I
What did you think about “I Have A Dream” – New York when you were in school? Growing up, I wasn’t allowed to hang out in the streets alone with my friends. The "I Have A Dream" Program was my only opportunity to see my friends, therefore as a child, I looked forward to going to “The Program” afterschool and during the summer.
What High School did you attend, and what year did you graduate? My parents and I moved to Florida when I was 12 years old. I attended John I. Leonard High School in Greenacres, FL
Did you go to college/secondary school? If so, where and what did you study? I attended Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, FL and received my BBA degree with a major in finance.
What are you doing now? I work at Morgan Stanley as a Registered Client Service Associate.
How would you explain the “I Have A Dream” program to someone who had never heard of it? I introduce the program as an organization that focuses on creating an opportunity for youth to attain a higher education.
How did being a Dreamer affect you?Being a Dreamer has affected my life immensely. It’s a part of who I am, the reason I am on path to the quality of life my ancestors fought for me to have. They brought my family to the land of opportunity and that is exactly what I received through being a Dreamer.
What were some of your favorite memories about being a Dreamer? Some of my favorite memories as a Dreamer were going to Morry’s Camp, attending Mets games with my dad, learning to swim at the Boys & Girls club and taking field trips.
Jamie's graduation photo
Would you be where you are today without “I Have A Dream” – New York? Why or why not? I don’t believe I would be where I am today if it weren’t for “I Have A Dream.” College was a thought introduced solely by “The Program” and only made financially possible by them. Not only did they assist financially, they also provided tutoring to help in your academic short-comings.
What does your family think of “I Have A Dream” – New York? My family didn’t have the means to put me through college. They are grateful for the role [that] “I Have A Dream” played in my success and in my childhood development.
Are you still involved with “I Have A Dream” – New York? Yes, I am part of the Dreamer Alumni Network of New York.
If you are a Dreamer Alum who would like to share your story for the blog, please contact Thierry Cazeau at tcazeau@ihaveadreamny.org .