Alumni and Friend Support Help Students Fulfill Their Promise

Irving Corzo ’13 was looking for a school with small class sizes and a strong liberal arts tradition. He didn’t have to go far from home — Willamette felt like a perfect fit.

A Salem native, Corzo attended Willamette Academy, a Willamette University program that reaches out to historically underrepresented communities, empowering youth who have the desire and potential to seek higher education.

Once arriving at Willamette, Corzo excelled. A Spanish and international studies major, he has enjoyed the opportunity to work closely with engaging and inspiring professors. “They are always available in and out of class,” says Corzo. “My professors know me by name — they know who I am, and I really appreciate that level of attention.”

While he completes his senior year, Corzo looks toward the future. “After I graduate, I want to attend law school,” says Corzo. “I think that’s a good opportunity to help people. I want to be a public defender or human rights lawyer.”

Attending class full-time while holding down a job to help cover the cost of his education, Corzo’s financial abilities are similar to most of his classmates. More than 96 percent of Willamette students rely on financial assistance. “I know that a lot of alumni and friends donate to the university and that’s very important. Without their support, I and most of my classmates wouldn’t be here right now,” says Corzo. “I see myself giving back after I graduate too — to pay it forward, to live our motto.”

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