One hundred percent college acceptance. For many, those words represent a dream come true, but for Jesus Marquez Estrada (DSST: Cole ‘25), they became the spark that ignited a fierce determination to succeed.
DSST: Cole has been more than just a school for Marquez Estrada, it’s been a place where he’s built the confidence to pursue college.
“I enjoyed my past few years here… I love the school,” he shared. He credits that to Cole’s small class sizes and the intentional relationships he’s formed with his teachers. “Cole really sets you up on a path that not only opens many opportunities for you, but it makes you academically prepared for college.”
At DSST, every student has a champion, and for him, that champion was his advisor, Ms. Pantoja. “My advisor, she really encouraged me,” he said. “If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be here.” Her encouragement helped him stay focused, ensuring he was academically prepared for the road ahead.
But his journey wasn’t without obstacles. During his sophomore and junior years, Marquez Estrada faced a major setback—tearing his ACL during football season. Surgery and recovery made it difficult to stay on top of his academics. But he didn’t give up.
“The obstacles I went through my freshman, sophomore year, going through ACL surgery, losing people, not focusing… It was taking me down the wrong path, but I came back,” he said. “Thank God I did, or I wouldn’t have the grades I have now.”
With the unwavering support of his friends and family, especially his mother, Marquez Estrada found the resilience to push through. Her dedication to his education and success gave him the confidence to take full advantage of the opportunities at DSST: Cole.
Now, Marquez Estrada is waiting to hear back from several schools, including Colorado State University, where he hopes to study construction management. “I applied to CSU because I want to do construction management… There are many options to pick.” No matter where he lands, one thing is certain—his determination has already made him a winner.
