Esther became involved with La Casa’s Teen Center when she was 15 years old, after moving to the United States three years earlier from the Dominican Republic.  It was not easy being an immigrant teen in Newark.  Not only did she struggle with typical teenage female issues but she also had to adapt to a new culture and language.  Esther found the teen center to be a welcoming place.  The counselors there helped her sort through family concerns and helped her to make it through some rough spots in school.  In particular the “Stand and Deliver” communications and speaking program helped Esther be comfortable in her own shoes, express herself and allow her to grow into her own identity.

When it came time to apply to college, Esther was ready.  She was inspired to apply to 19 universities, 18 of which accepted her, and most with academic scholarships.  Today, Esther is attending Drew University.