Martha Estrada-Perez

Foothill College - Psychology Major
Paly, Class of 2024

Updated August 2025

Q: What was your experience like going to Paly?

A: My experience at Paly was truly amazing. I felt so grateful to have the privilege of receiving such a high-quality education. I connected with many of my teachers and felt academically challenged in the best possible ways. Some of my favorite classes were U.S. Government and Child & Adolescent Development, which helped spark my passion for psychology and my growing interest in political science and criminal justice. I especially loved being part of the Child Development Pathway and choir. Ms. McDaniel, my Child Development teacher, was someone I connected with very deeply. She created a classroom environment that was supportive, engaging, and inspiring. Another teacher who had a big impact on me was Mr. Foug, my sophomore history teacher. Both of them made learning feel exciting and meaningful. Outside of academics and extracurriculars, I was also incredibly thankful for the support services at Paly, like my amazing counselors and the opportunity to receive therapy when I needed it. The resources at Paly are truly unmatched, and they made a lasting impact on me.

Q: How did you first hear about RTE?

A: I first heard about RTE when I received a letter in the mail saying I would receive the RTE Scholarship! I was incredibly grateful for Paly’s scholarship system, which allowed me to submit one general application that counselors used to match students with scholarships. Because of my strong relationships with teachers and counselors, and my academic success, I was fortunate to be awarded a few amazing scholarships, including RTE’s.

Q: How has RTE impacted your life?

A: RTE has impacted my life in more ways than I can describe. Beyond the financial support, what means the most to me is the emotional and academic encouragement I’ve received as a first-generation college student. Having people in my corner cheering me on through this unfamiliar journey has been life-changing, especially since both of my parents immigrated from Mexico and never had the chance to attend college themselves. Having a mentor like Lisa Daly has been one of the biggest blessings. She consistently checks in on me and has supported me through some of the best and hardest moments, not just in college but in life. Her guidance and care have meant the world to me.

Q: Did any adults help/support you in the process of getting TO and THROUGH college? How?

A: Yes! My mentor Lisa was a huge help in the beginning, she helped me gather key information and prepare for my start at Foothill. My EOPS (Extended Opportunity Program and Services) counselor, Tilly Wu, has also been instrumental in supporting my academic planning and making sure I was set up for success each quarter. She even helped me get hired as a tutor for other EOPS students, which was such a great opportunity. And of course, my dad has played a huge role. He drove me to and from school and even helped me learn how to drive along the way! His support has meant so much.

Q: What has college been like for you? Have you faced any challenges or had any notable successes?

A: College has honestly been a really positive experience. Attending Foothill College has brought me a lot of peace and financial stability. It’s a calm, welcoming campus, and I’ve felt very grounded there. This past year, I’ve been blessed with strong academic success, and I was hired as an online tutor for EOPS–which has been both flexible and fulfilling. Although most of my classes were online, the few in-person experiences I had, along with my job, gave me the chance to meet new people and form lasting friendships. However, one of the hardest challenges was managing my time when I had online classes. Motivation was also a big challenge on the days when I didn’t have classes but still had to get work done. Nevertheless, I pushed through!

Q: Where do you hope to transfer to from Foothill?

A: I hope to transfer to either USC or UCLA–going to college in Southern California has always been a dream of mine. That said, I also know that plans can change, and I’d be equally happy staying closer to home and attending Santa Clara University or UC Berkeley.

Q: What is your goal after college?

A: After college, I hope to secure internships that align with my interests in psychology, social work, or law/criminal justice. I’m still exploring exactly what I want to pursue as a long-term career, but I’m excited to learn through hands-on experience. Eventually, I plan to return to school for a master’s degree–and maybe even a doctorate in psychology or law school. I know there’s still a long road ahead, but I’m staying open to wherever my journey leads!