Chicago Tribune

Somewhere between the college visits and the gentle but persistent encouragement from her high school counselor, Leticia Gelacio resolved to become the first in her family to graduate from college.

Now a sophomore at Lake Forest College, the 19-year-old juggles a double major — elementary education and communications — with her responsibilities as a student ambassador. She also makes time for her sister, Jasmine, who joined her on campus as a freshman this year...