Believing in a Future: How Idaho LAUNCH for Students Helped Hayley Break Barriers

For many high school students, the path to college and career is shaped by possibility and preparation. For Hayley, it was shadowed by uncertainty and grief. During her junior year of high school, her life changed dramatically when her mother passed away. Her father had long been absent, so the loss left her with no immediate parental support. She moved in with her grandparents, who were already living on a fixed income. Attending college had always been one of Hayley’s goals, but as personal responsibilities grew and the financial strain mounted, it began to feel increasingly out of reach. Paying for college on her own seemed nearly impossible.

That changed when both her high school counselor and TRIO advisor told her about Idaho LAUNCH. Suddenly, she could see a way forward that hadn’t existed before. With their encouragement, she decided to apply.

After going through the process and completing all the necessary steps, Hayley was awarded her LAUNCH grant. She was then able to enroll in Boise State University’s College of Business and Economics, pursuing a degree in marketing and entrepreneurial management. While the grant helped ease the financial burden to get there, its impact ran much deeper.

“Something that people don’t realize is that LAUNCH is more than just a grant. It gave me hope for my future, even when all other odds were against me.”

Through practical courses in marketing, accounting, and business, she discovered new directions she had never imagined, and a growing sense of what she could achieve. College became a place where she could actually build the career she wanted. Knowing that LAUNCH focuses on in-demand careers helped her choose a pathway aligned with real opportunities.

“LAUNCH helped me focus on what I really wanted to do, not just what others expected. It gave me the courage to pursue my goals.”

Beyond academics, Hayley found her place in the broader campus community. She joined student organizations and connected with other students and mentors who believed in her potential. Today, Hayley is a member of both the Honors College and the National Honor Society, achievements that reflect how far she’s come from those uncertain days in high school.

Just as importantly, her mindset has shifted. With clear goals and strong direction, she’s focused on completing her degree and building a meaningful career in business.

“When you put yourself in a positive mindset and surround yourself with people who want to help you grow, everything starts to change.”

To students facing similar uncertainty, she offers this advice:

“It may sound cheesy, but if you believe in yourself, everything will come to you. It takes hard work, but with a goal, a positive mindset, and consistent effort, your dreams can become your reality.”

Hayley’s journey is a reminder that when students are given both support and opportunity, they can move forward and thrive.