I have often found myself taking for granted the resources that CUNY offers students, ignoring the fact that students have been able to thrive with these particular resources. Therefore, as an active student, you should be aware of the advantages that community colleges can offer you. Another key element towards your personal enlightenment is achieved by reaching out to students with success stories for compelling information. I was able to learn from HSAC alumni who were able to transfer to top-tier universities. I had several questions: What are their stories and how do they stand out? By seeking answers to these questions, I felt empowered to gain a competitive advantage. Before attending LaGuardia Community College, I had a fixed mindset to transfer to Baruch. After poring over websites and newsletters, I became aware of a number of LaGuardia alumni who shared my goal and transferred to elite four-year colleges that I never could have imagined possible for me. Thanks to their success stories, I began challenging myself with honors courses, seeking opportunities offered by professors and staff, and looking to transfer to colleges outside of CUNY. It's amazing to feel that students I've never met can have such extraordinary power over me. Their experiences have significantly changed my perspective