At STEP College Prep, we believe in the power of education to transform lives. This year, we welcomed 117 ambitious students into the STEP Class of 2027, selected from a highly competitive pool of 292 applicants.
These scholars represent 46 schools across 13 districts, bringing diverse backgrounds, goals, and passions that inspire us every day. Whether from Tucson or Phoenix, each student is taking the next step toward their college dreams, and we couldn’t be more excited to support them.
As we kick off another year, we’re thrilled to introduce a few of the incredible students in the STEP Class of 2027.
Meet Melissa V.
Melissa is a leader at NFL YET College Prep Academy, juggling academics, athletics, and extracurriculars. She’s involved in varsity cheer, soccer, volleyball, and manages basketball teams—all while contributing to school journalism, yearbook, drama, and social media. She’s also getting a head start on college through the ACE/Healthcare program at South Mountain Community College.
Why STEP? "I have faith and trust that STEP will help me achieve my dream scholarships and acceptances into my dream schools. Not only will STEP help me with school, but it will help me discover new skills and talents that I never knew I possessed."
Her goal? To attend a top university and become a pediatric doctor.
Meet Iker G.
Jonathan, a student at Maryvale High School, participates in the Academic Decathlon and has a passion for math and science.
Why STEP? "I wanted to join STEP so they can prepare me for college, and prepare for tests like the ACT.”
"His goal? To get accepted into a 4-year university and study nuclear science.
Meet Sylvia M.
Sylvia, a student at Cesar Chavez High School, is passionate about drama and language studies, excelling in English and French.
Why STEP? "College is something that I really wanted to go to. To explore something I found interest in."
Her goal? To graduate and grow as a person in a field she’s passionate about.
Meet Joaquin L.
Joaquin is a standout student at University High School in Tucson. He plays baseball, participates on the school’s robotics team, represents Future Business Leaders of America in multiple competitions, and helps mentor middle schoolers. His favorite subjects are World History, Environmental Science, and Journalism.
Why STEP? "I am very driven to go to college, especially out of state, and I never really knew the process for that. I care a lot about my future, and I feel like STEP is going to be a good way to help me take more control of my future."
His goal? To attend the University of Toronto and pursue a career in urban planning or transportation engineering.
Meet Aliyah M.
Aliyah, a student at Flowing Wells High School, is a dedicated member of Academic Decathlon, Soroptimist, and other clubs. She excels in math and science, with a particular love for mathematics.
Why STEP? "I'm very passionate about my future and making sure I open myself up to a better future, and STEP seemed like another way to do that."
Her goal? To attend Johns Hopkins University, major in math, and double major or minor in a healthcare-related field.
Meet Leerabari K.
Leerabari, a student at Buckeye Union High School, is a competitor in FBLA and a tennis player with a passion for economic empowerment. She enjoys math, history, and business.
Why STEP? "Coming from a background where educational opportunities weren't always easily accessible, I knew I needed a program that could help me grow. STEP provides the mentorship, guidance, resources, and community I need to refine my path, expand my impact, and ensure I’m prepared for the future I want to create."
Her goal? To attend college out of state on a full-ride scholarship, double majoring in Economics & Public Policy with a minor in Finance.
Meet Marlon R.
Marlon, a student at Copper Canyon High School, is passionate about sports, participating in soccer, track, and cross country, as well as the criminal justice club. His favorite subjects are math and French.
Why STEP? "I wanted to join STEP because it gave me better chances of getting into colleges as well as creating opportunities for scholarships to lessen the financial burden that college creates."
His goal? To earn an aerospace engineering degree and help support his siblings' futures.
Meet Miriam T.
Miriam, a student at Maryvale High School who loves writing poetry and excels in English and World History.
Why STEP? "Growing up, my dream was to go to college and become a lawyer, and that’s exactly what I want to do. The way STEP is so peer-oriented and welcoming really caught my eye—especially the test prep, sessions, and financial aid support."
Her goal? To attend Cornell University, earn her bachelor's degree, and eventually become a lawyer.
Meet Donavan D.
Donavan, a student at University High School Tolleson, enjoys ceramics and language classes, with a strong interest in science, English, and history.
Why STEP? "STEP seems like a great program that would help me achieve my dream of going to college. I want to attend college and become a pharmacist, which is why I am in University High School."
His goal? To pursue a career in pharmacy and make the most of his college experience.
The Future Is Bright
Each of these students brings something special to STEP, and we’re honored to support them as they take the next steps toward their dreams. Whether they aspire to be doctors, engineers, business leaders, or lawyers, they all share a common drive: the determination to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
We can’t wait to see what they accomplish! Stay tuned for more scholar spotlights and updates as these incredible students continue their journeys.