Congratulations to Jean Rivera, a current staff member and alumnus of Esperanza Academy, who just finished his bachelor’s degree at Temple University! There’s something truly special about seeing our alumni come full circle: returning to serve the next generation and continuing to chase their own dreams. Jean’s journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. Read on to learn more about Jean’s story!
What has your journey looked like since you graduated from EACS?
My journey since I graduated from EA has been amazing, exploring new areas and achieving goals. I got accepted into my dream university, The University of the Arts. I started my career as a graphic designer and changed it to illustration because my passion was not there. In UArts, I learn so many new techniques from amazing professors who helped me grow my skills and find my artistic style. I took classes in ink, screen printing, book binding, and much more. Getting to my senior year, UArts decided to close its doors. I thought it was the end for me – where was I going to finish my career? In the end, many universities got together and gave us the opportunity to transfer. This is where I had the opportunity to be part of Temple University’s Tyler School of Art, where the Design, and now Design and Illustration Department, opened new courses to welcome the Illustration students. I will always be thankful to them for accepting us and giving us the opportunity to grow and graduate. In Tyler, I really felt the college student vibes: a big campus where you can taste different foods, take some sun time, and have fun with friends. A community where everyone is accepted, no matter your major. Where you have the opportunity to experiment with new concepts and at the same time learn from others’ careers, getting together with your classmates in a class where everyone is a beginner. I had the opportunity to take education classes, special education classes, and a little bit of sign language.
In the Spring Semester, I had the opportunity to explore new worlds such as ceramics, jewelry, and mobile apps. I was published for the first time in the Philadelphia Inquirer, representing the Latino Community with the creation of a PIN vote called VOTA. Raising our voice as Latinos with elements that represent each of the countries selected and with joyful colors that represent our traditions. Another big part of my time in Tyler was my thesis. My thesis, called Dear Little Me, helps me to connect with my younger self and teaches me that our younger self is the key point where our dreams start. In Dear Little Me, I decide to send letters to my younger self in the form of a book with a suitcase of memories and illustrated postcards. On May 8, 2025, my childhood dream became an adult accomplishment when I graduated with my bachelor’s in Illustration in the Visual Arts. It was not easy, but I did it!
How did your time at EACS prepare you for life after high school?
I came to Esperanza Academy in 8th grade. EACS taught me that my first language is important and that coming from another place makes me special and unique. I learned the importance of being part of a big community like the Latino community and feeling accepted in a new place. It was not easy being far away from home—Puerto Rico. EACS helped me stay on the path to success in each grade, grow in my English skills, and become a better person each year.
I can’t forget about two important people who were always there for me. Ms. Rivera, an ELD paraprofessional, was someone who never said no. She always gave her best to teach us and help us with our assignments. She showed us how to never give up and what real love for a job looks like. And Ms. Christensen, my amazing art teacher since 10th grade, gave me the opportunity to join her wonderful classes, develop my skills, take my art to the next level, and learn the importance of love and passion for the arts. To this day, she still supports and helps me—even though I graduated five years ago.
Thank you, EACS, for teaching me all of this and taking my hand when everything felt confusing at the beginning. I have felt safe, loved, and accepted in this community since the first day I walked through the hallways as a student.
What advice would you give to our current high school students?
High school students, once I was in your shoes — and YES, I also said, “I want to graduate, and I don’t want to hear anything more about EA.” But believe me, you will miss it with all your heart after graduation. Everything becomes just memories. Adult life gets busy, friends take different paths, and we no longer have the support of such caring teachers.
Save all the amazing memories you’ve made at EA in your heart, because these moments will never come back. I graduated five years ago, and I still miss it like it was yesterday. Always do everything with love and passion. Fight for your dreams and make them come true. And always put yourself first, second, and third.