From Student to Scholar: Elianny Polanco’s Journey Through Early College and NJCDC

Watch our short video on Elianny's journey

When Elianny Polanco walked across the stage at Passaic County Community College (PCCC) this May to receive her associate degree — weeks before her high school graduation — the moment was more than just symbolic. It marked the culmination of a transformative academic journey, one shaped by bold choices, deep personal growth, and a strong network of support, including years of involvement with NJCDC.

“I knew I wanted to be challenged,” Elianny said. “My high school classes were too easy...there wasn’t much rigor. I knew if I wanted to be prepared for college, I had to push myself.”

That push came in the form of PCCC’s Early College Program. Open to high school juniors and seniors, the program allows students to earn an associate degree while completing their high school education. Elianny was part of the inaugural cohort of Paterson students to join the program, and at just 15 years old, she stepped onto a college campus and into a new chapter of her life.

“I definitely got that smack-in-the-face moment,” she laughed. “It was a whole new pace. Suddenly I needed tutoring for the first time in my life. I wasn’t used to asking for help, but I had to learn that needing help didn’t mean I wasn’t smart. It just meant I was being challenged.”

Between classes like Pre-Calculus, Philosophy, Literature, and American Government, Elianny’s days were packed. Her Fridays were free, but instead of going back to her high school, she used the time to study, work, and get involved on campus. The age diversity in her college classes — from fellow teens to senior citizens — pushed her to think more critically and communicate in new ways.

It was during this time that Elianny deepened her civic awareness. “Before Early College, I didn’t care much about politics,” she said. “But now I understand how important it is to know what’s going on in our country, who’s in charge, and why voting matters.”

That civic engagement carried over to her time at NJCDC, where she’s been involved since her sophomore year. Elianny got her start as a student ambassador under NJCDC’s Full Service Community Schools initiative at JFK High School, where she quickly took on a leadership role. “We were advocating to our principal for real change — things that would make a difference for students,” she said. “That experience sparked something in me.”

She went on to join our Paterson Youth Council and Great Falls Youth Center. Through NJCDC’s Youth Center-based podcast, The Loft, Elianny even had the chance to interview New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way. “Hearing her story gave me hope,” she said. “It was inspiring to know that someone from a challenging background could rise so far. It made me believe that we could, too.”

Now, Elianny gives back in a more formal way: as a part-time NJCDC employee at our Paterson Family Center, a preschool serving local 3- to 5-year-olds. “I’ve learned so much from my coworkers and from the kids,” she said. “They teach you patience. They teach you how to communicate differently. Every day is an opportunity to grow.”

Looking back, Elianny credits NJCDC with being a constant source of support, guidance, and encouragement. “There’s always someone reaching out, checking in, offering advice or an opportunity,” she said. “I’ve gotten to do so many things I never thought possible, and it all started with just saying yes.”

That support has not gone unnoticed by NJCDC’s leadership.

“Elianny represents the very best of what our youth are capable of when given the tools, encouragement, and opportunity to thrive,” said NJCDC Founder & CEO Bob Guarasci. “We’ve watched her grow from a shy student ambassador to a confident young leader, and we couldn’t be prouder of her accomplishments.”

David Gelman, NJCDC’s Chief Program Officer, has seen Elianny’s journey up close. “What stands out about Elianny is her willingness to challenge herself and uplift others,” he said. “She embodies what NJCDC strives to do: empower Paterson’s youth to reach their potential while giving back to their community.”

That same spirit drives her plans for the future. This fall, Elianny will attend Ramapo College to study neuroscience. She hopes to one day return to Paterson to serve her community as a doctor — and a mentor.

“I don’t want to leave Paterson behind,” she said. “NJCDC has shown me the importance of giving back. And now I want to be one of the people who comes back and helps the next generation find their path, just like so many people did for me.”

Extended Q&A with Elianny Polanco

Want to hear more from Elianny in her own words? Below is the full transcript of our interview (lightly edited for length and clarity), where she shares insights on her Early College experience, her work with NJCDC, and what drives her to keep giving back to her community.

Q: What made you decide to apply for the Early College program?

I applied to Early College because I was in a high school that wasn't very rigorous... I knew that if I wanted to go to college and be prepared, I needed to challenge myself. So when my counselor told me about Early College, I said, "yes, definitely I'll do it."

Q: What were your expectations going in, and how did the reality compare?

I definitely knew it was gonna be hard, but I also thought I could get through it kind of like high school. And then I got there, and it was a smack in the face. It was definitely different... I definitely felt the wave of challenge, but it was also good. I got to feel more advanced and have better conversations with my professors.

Q: Can you walk us through a typical day as an Early College student?

I had a regular college schedule, with classes Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Fridays were free. When I had free time, I got involved on campus, spent time with friends, worked... I didn’t go back to my high school unless I had something like state testing.

Q: What were some of the most challenging classes or moments, and how did you get through them?

Pre-Calculus was definitely tough...suddenly I needed tutoring. That was new for me. And in college, it was harder to get involved socially because of the age diversity. But I had mentors and leaned on my support system, including NJCDC, which helped me get through.

Q: What was it like needing tutoring for the first time?

It was humbling. I was usually the one helping others, so it was new. But I learned that needing help doesn’t mean you’re not smart; it means you’re challenging yourself.

On growth and takeaways:

Q: How do you feel you’ve changed academically, personally, or socially because of this program?

I became more civically engaged and aware of politics. I had to think critically. I also developed time management skills and accountability because I had more independence than in high school.

Q: Do you feel this program gave you a head start on college or your career?

Definitely. Now I’m prepared, and I kind of know what to expect.

Q: How did it feel to receive your associate degree before graduating high school?

It felt great, but not like a final accomplishment. It felt like the beginning, like, "okay, I’m ready to start. What’s next?"

On finding a home at NJCDC:

Q: How and when did you first get involved with NJCDC?

Sophomore year I was a student ambassador under NJCDC’s Full Service Community Schools at JFK High School. From there, I joined the Paterson Youth Council, started working at the Paterson Family Center…and I’ve been part of the NJCDC family ever since.

Q: How would you describe NJCDC’s role in your life?

It’s been a huge branch of support, from Mr. Gelman and Bob to my coworkers at PFC. There was always someone checking in, giving advice, encouraging me to take part in opportunities. I never felt alone.

Q: How did NJCDC help you step outside your comfort zone?

They encouraged me to do podcasts, speak in public, interview important figures like Lt. Governor Way. It helped me build confidence and taught me to say yes to opportunities, even when I was nervous.

Q: How did NJCDC support you through the college application process

Miss Cristina, Miss Sabrina, and others were always there. Whether it was help with volunteering, applications, or understanding which schools accepted more credits, they guided me through everything.

On giving back to the next generation:

Q: What do you enjoy most about your job at the Paterson Family Center?

My coworkers are amazing, Miss Maria and Miss Letty especially. And the kids teach you so much...patience, communication, joy. It’s a beautiful experience.

Q: How does it feel to give back to NJCDC?

I know I’ll always be part of NJCDC. I want to keep giving back and one day be someone who can guide younger students like others guided me.

Q: What advice would you give a young person just starting with NJCDC? Don’t be scared, get involved! You grow so much when you say yes to new things. That’s what helped me get where I am.

Q: What are your hopes for the future, for yourself and for Paterson youth?

I want to serve my community as a neuroscientist. And I want Paterson youth to know: anybody can be great, because everybody can serve.