November 21st, 2025.
For Livingston High School Spring 2025 graduate Valeria Quintero Lopez, the Math Bridge program was more than just another math class: it was a launching pad toward her college and career goals. Now a Business Administration major at Merced College, Valeria reflects on how Math Bridge helped her build confidence, sharpen her academic skills, and step into higher education fully prepared.
Valeria participated in Math Bridge under the guidance of Teresa Mercado, her high school statistics instructor. The project’s unique model of a combined college and high school curriculum gave her a first-hand look at what college coursework would demand.
“Math Bridge opened my eyes to college expectations and rigor, allowing me to experience what higher education felt like,” Valeria shared.
The transition from high school to college can be daunting for many students, especially when it comes to meeting college-level math requirements. But for Valeria, Math Bridge turned that challenge into an opportunity. The program not only allowed her to earn college math credit while still in high school, but it also equipped her with valuable academic tools.
“Math Bridge taught me how to use Canvas and other college platforms so I could start out ahead of the curve at Merced College,” she said.
Now studying full-time at Merced College, Valeria has already put those skills to good use. She’s completing an internship in Turlock, CA, where she helps process student applications and tuition payments, an experience that’s giving her real-world insight into business operations. With her growing interest in management and networking, Valeria is excited about how her education and internship are shaping her future career path.
“Math Bridge helped ease my anxiety going into college. It was like a test run to the actual thing,” she explained. “It also freed my college schedule up by allowing me to complete my math requirements. Now, I have time to pursue my internship and dedicate more energy to other classes.”
Valeria’s story is a testament to how Math Bridge continues to transform students’ educational journeys by aligning high school and college mathematics programs. Through collaborative instruction, aligned curriculum, and a focus on student success, the program eliminates barriers that often hinder college readiness.
Valeria is deeply grateful for the support and opportunities Math Bridge provided.
“I wouldn’t have felt this confident starting college if it weren’t for Math Bridge,” she said. “It gave me a head start and showed me what I’m capable of.”
Watch Valeria’s full interview on our Testimonial page. We look forward to continuing our work and expanding the impact of the Math Bridge project. Visit our website to learn more about how College Bridge can transform the lives of your students!
-Audra Burwell, Communication Coordinator