College : Hawaii Pacific University Career goal : International business

About Anissa : Anissa will not only be the first in her family to go to college , she will attend Hawaii Pacific University , 2,512 miles away . Anissa was involved in numerous activities at Sunnyside High , but joining the Step Up Pathways program was pivotal . A Step Up East Coast tour of historically black colleges and universities ( HBCU ) ignited her passion for travel and helped her decide to focus on a career in international business . Through Step Up , she completed four online college courses taught by professors from Benedict College , an HBCU , helping her mature and preparing her for college . “ Once I joined Step Up , I kind of found my spot ,” she said .

Anissa considered an HBCU but chose Hawaii Pacific for its study abroad opportunities and the financial aid package .

Anissa is bilingual in Spanish through Fresno Unified ’ s dual language immersion program that she began at Ewing Elementary School . Anissa earned her state Seal of Biliteracy , was an AP Ambassador and president of Friday Night Live , which combats teen substance abuse . She also was co-commissioner of the Diversity Committee and on Link Crew .

In Anissa ’ s words : “ Take chances and try because if you don ’ t , you ’ ll never know the greatest potential you can reach .”

From Sunnyside High School teacher Ed Schneider : “ Anissa Ellerbee exemplifies everything a teacher hopes for in a student . She holds high academic standards for herself and puts forth the time and energy to achieve them , she possesses strong character and integrity , and her genuine concern for others makes everyone around her better . The world could use a few more people like Anissa . She truly is incredible .”

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