Fidelity Scholar: Program gives diverse types of support, helps him be well-rounded

Durham Tech student Juan-Pablo Quintanilla Ha began his interest in the Fidelity Scholars program during high school, when a guidance counselor shared information on the program. 

“After learning about the Fidelity program from a high school counselor of mine, I researched the program and found I was a fit because of my Latino-Asian descent, but also because of my academic excellence and it helped that I am a go-getter,” said Ha, who was one of the Durham Tech students selected for the program. “I was then all about the program and how it could help me get a college education.” 

Ha saw Fidelity’s program as a way to receive money for college, but quickly learned it was much more. 

“At first it was a way to save money on my college education. Then I saw I needed it to learn about Durham Tech, get diverse types of support while there and to just be well-rounded,” Ha said. “I wanted to be involved in the program for many reasons, not just the monetary aspect.” 

The Fidelity Scholars Program supports students from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, including first-generation college students, those from mixed-status families, and individuals facing low-income or housing insecurity challenges. Its mission is to promote the persistence and success of these students throughout their higher education journey. 

“I found out I was selected by email followed by a phone call,” Ha said. “I scheduled a meeting with a Fidelity representative where I learned about the information sessions they offered, the benefits of being in the program and what I could expect from the program. ... The more I investigated the program and thought about it, I knew it was right for me.”  

Fidelity reps meet directly with scholars on their campus of choice to create a supportive network for the student. Fidelity also hosts monthly Power Hour Workshops for scholars where topics range from mental health to career readiness. Finally, Fidelity assigns mentors and college success coaches to students to meet their unique needs and goals. 

“The Fidelity Program was a well-rounded one,” Ha said. “Its multi-pronged approach touched on things I needed. I needed the structure and the support. If I have questions at Durham Tech I go to tutoring or an instructor, but I also know Fidelity’s staff has me, as well.” 

Ha credits the Fidelity Program with helping him succeed, but he also said that the support provided by Durham Tech also has helped him achieve at an elevated level.  

“I must maintain a 2.0 GPA, but I press myself to go beyond that. I do go beyond it with the help of my instructors, my advisors, and the administration here at Durham Tech,” Ha said. “One of the most influential people for me here on campus is one of my advisors. He basically helped me put one foot in front of the other as I started at the College. He suggested small steps to find what I wanted to pursue on campus and in life. He guided me to my passion.” 

Ha’s passion is clinical research. After graduating from Durham Tech, he plans to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  

“Going to UNC after Durham Tech is a real possibility now and it allows me to stay close to home,” Ha said. “The Fidelity Program got me to Durham Tech, I kept myself there and I will get myself on to the next place.” 

However, Ha said, his parents’ involvement has also helped him get to where he wants to be. 

“My parents support me. They are always there,” Ha said. “They were happy with my decision to become part of the Fidelity Program because they knew good things would come from it and Durham Tech was one of the good things.” 

The next step for Ha may include a Fidelity internship program that interests him. 

“I am interested in their internship opportunity, but I don’t want to overdo it. I have school, a job, and hobbies,” Ha said. “In my free time I like to play Sudoku, read, spend time with my younger sister, who is 11, and just relax, but I mostly like to stay busy so the internship may be just the thing for me. ... We will see.”