SPARC Senior Carlos Corres Velasco Matched to Princeton University Through QuestBridge

Monterey High School senior, IB Diploma candidate, and SPARC (Sports Profession and Recreation Careers Academy) Academy student Carlos Corres Velasco has been selected as a QuestBridge Match to Princeton University, earning a full four-year scholarship to one of the nation’s most prestigious institutions.

For Carlos, who has navigated his academic journey while growing up in foster care, the moment still feels unreal.

“I never imagined this,” he said. “If it weren’t for QuestBridge and the way the program opens doors, I never would have applied to schools like Princeton.”

Carlos’ journey through the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District began at Ord Terrace Elementary School, continued through Walter Colton Middle School, and culminated at Monterey High School, where he has distinguished himself academically, athletically, and as a leader.

Through QuestBridge, a highly competitive national program that connects high-achieving, low-income students with top colleges, Carlos completed an extensive application process that allowed him to fully share his story, goals, and aspirations. In November 2025, he was named a QuestBridge finalist. When final decisions were announced, Carlos received life-changing news: he had officially matched with Princeton University.

A Full-Circle Moment

Carlos will attend Princeton on a full scholarship, marking the beginning of a new chapter he once believed was out of reach.

“I was really sad at first about not getting into Stanford,” he shared. “It had been my goal since freshman year, and the first campus I visited through AVID at Monterey High. But now, I’m starting to picture myself at Princeton and really stepping into campus life.”

For Carlos’ family, the achievement represents joy, pride, and reflection.

“As a parent, it’s incredibly heartwarming,” shared Yesenia Cruz, Carlos’ foster care mother. “It’s also nerve-wracking to think about him leaving for college, but we are so proud.”

Carlos also emphasizes the unwavering support of his extended family, especially his uncles, Cinthia Corres Luna and Alfonso Martinez Aragon.

“They have been an incredible support system for me,” Carlos said. “Along with Yesenia and her family, they were there for me during my most vulnerable moments, and they’ve also been there to watch me grow and bloom. To all of them, this is just good news and hearts full of joy.”

Doing It for His Sister

One of Carlos’ greatest motivations is his younger sister, a third grader at Del Rey Woods Elementary School, also part of the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District.

“Since the day she was born, I decided to take on a parental role in her life,” Carlos shared. “In many ways, she grew up alongside me, and she’s been my reason to keep going during some of the hardest moments.”

Carlos describes his sister not only as someone he protects, but as someone who gives him strength.

“She’s been there for me just as much as I’ve been there for her,” he said. “Her belief in me, even when she doesn’t fully realize it, has pushed me to be better every day.”

Through his journey, Carlos hopes to show his sister Itzayana that her dreams are valid and achievable.

“I want her to grow up knowing that motivation, determination, and dedication can open doors, no matter where you come from or what challenges you face,” he said. “If my story can help her believe in herself even a little more, then everything I’ve worked for is worth it. Everything I do is for her.”

Finding His Purpose

Carlos plans to enter Princeton as a psychology major, a passion that emerged during his junior year after initially considering math and science-focused paths. Through classroom discussions, community engagement, and dual enrollment courses at Monterey Peninsula College, psychology became a clear calling.

Looking ahead, Carlos is considering a future in pediatrics or pursuing a Ph.D., with the goal of serving and advocating for others.

A Message to His Mother

Carlos also shared a brief message dedicated to his mother.

“Thank you for everything you did for me,” he said. “Even though you weren’t here to share this moment, I hope you’re proud of me. This achievement was seeded by you, your values, and the person you shaped me to become.”

A Community That Believed in Him

Carlos credits much of his success to the educators and mentors who supported him throughout his journey.

Among those he thanks are:

Ms. Schupp, who became not only a teacher but a close friend and mentor. “It hurt deeply when she had to leave, but I’m so happy for her and grateful for everything she gave me.”
Mr. Wang, whose guidance helped Carlos clarify his academic and career goals. “He helped me discover and clarify my passion and was always there to listen, support, and encourage me.”
Ms. Grainger and Mr. Harbor, two of the teachers Carlos most aspires to learn from. “They pushed me to think beyond limits and helped me develop strong organization and writing habits that I’ll carry with me for life.”
Ms. Herrera, Ms. Costello, and Ms. Schupp, whom Carlos calls his “big three” in science. “They always brought joy into the room and helped guide my interest in science and science-related careers.”
Math teachers Mr. Nieves, Ms. Desimone, and Mr. Querimit, who kept his love for math alive by making the subject engaging and fun.
Ms. Hartfelt, who reignited his love for art and creativity. “Because of her, I rediscovered a passion for detailed inner creativity and would have loved to continue with DP Art.”
The SPARC Academy team, including Ms. Powell, Mr. Childs, Ms. Dizon, and others who consistently supported his growth.

Carlos also shared deep gratitude for Mr. Peterson, Mark Hedberg, and LeeAnn Rush-Sandberg, describing them as “incredibly supportive, understanding, and impactful throughout my journey.”

“The support I received from my teachers and mentors made all the difference,” Carlos said. “They believed in me before I fully believed in myself.”

As Carlos prepares for graduation and looks ahead to Princeton University, his story reflects the power of community, perseverance, and belief, and the pride of a Tiger ready for what’s next.