Santiago Goodhue Knows About Plot Twists

On a recent visit with his Bridges counselor Santiago Goodhue, a senior at Taos Academy, sat far back in his seat with his long legs stretched long. Santiago cuts a striking figure — he’s over six feet tall — but it’s not only his physical presence that commands attention, it’s his exuberant determination and resilience that emanates from him. 

"Ever since I was little I didn’t feel smart,” but he says in a way that instantly conveys that this is no longer his impression. 

Santiago, along with his father who raises him, is dyslexic. “I had a weird relationship with school,” he says. But despite those struggles, and due in part  to enormous support from teachers, Santiago began to excel academically in junior high. And while his interest in agriculture, sustainability, and animal husbandry blossomed, it was only three months ago when Santigo set his aims towards a college education. A friend encouraged him to seek assistance from Bridges Project for Education. Remembering that at some earlier point he had stuffed a Bridges business card in his wallet, Santiago reached for it. 

Now, as he works out the details of those college application applications, Santiago dreams of a future at either California Polytechnic State University or the University of New Mexico. 

Santiago says his goal is to “view life from a different perspective,” but to ultimately come back to Northern New Mexico “to make a positive impact and live sustainably.”

“I’ll definitely come back to Taos. I love Taos. I’m such a proud Taoseño,” says Santiago. 

At Bridges we help with applications, financial aid and finding the right colleges and vocational schools — and that’s only the start. Throughout the postsecondary experience, we stay aligned with our students to troubleshoot challenges, identify their school’s student resources and when necessary, we’re there to help them modify their plans. 

Plainly put: We simplify, demystify and eliminate the barriers that keep so many from bringing their wildest dreams to fruition. 

Thanks to people like you, our services are completely free. 

Your tax-deductible gift lights a path to college and vocational schools! In fact, to meet the demand for our counseling services, broad community support is absolutely critical. 

With support from Bridges, Santiago and his father are navigating new possibilities and watching a bright future unfold. 

Thank you for your support in our mission — and thank you for considering a one-time donation

to our spring campaign, or joining our monthly donation program. 

Sincerely,

Hannah

Hannah Kelly
Executive Director
Bridges Project for Education
www.bridgesproject.org
575.758.5074

P.S. Thank you for considering a tax-deductible donation. Your support of BRIDGES is an investment in our community!