Grad Standout: First-generation college student teaches girls how to code

LYNWOOD, Calif. - She’s a future USC Trojan with a heart for volunteerism and teaching girls how to code.  FOX 11 Grad Standout Evelyn Marquez is a first-generation college student who’s extremely proud of her heritage.

The Firebaugh High School Senior is the co-founder of Girls Who Code. Girls Who Code allows young girls to venture into the field of STEM and encourages them to pursue their dreams no matter what.

“Seeing how these girls believe in themselves, motivated me to believe in myself as well,” said Marquez.

Girls Who Code was the perfect springboard for Marquez to apply to the Bovard Scholars program at the University of Southern California. Bovard Scholars are high achieving high school students from socio-economically challenged backgrounds.  

Marquez credits her experience as a Bovard Scholar on campus at USC with igniting her interest in a major in non-governmental organization in social change with a minor in education in society.

“It gave me an outlet to new friendships, to new resources, and to the possibility of attending college as a first-generation college student,” she said. 

Marquez is thrilled to be attending USC on a trustee scholarship.  

Congratulations FOX 11 Grad Standout Evelyn Marquez from Firebaugh High School in Lynwood! We wish you all the best!