Dylan Piña

Dylan Piña holds framed acceptance letter to Brown

The American Dream is the belief that every person has the freedom and opportunity to succeed and attain a better life.

As Dylan Piña attends Brown University this fall, he is the ultimate embodiment of that sentiment.

Piña, the son of two Mexican immigrants, is being honored by his school as the top student in his graduating class. His journey to academic excellence is as inspiring as it is remarkable.

Growing up, Dylan spent weekends and holidays working alongside his father in the construction field. His early experiences instilled a strong work ethic and a determination to succeed. However, when he started school, he faced a significant challenge: he knew no English.

Everything changed when Piña’s school launched a reading contest. His natural competitiveness kicked in, and he was determined to master English to win. By the third grade, his voracious reading habits had not only made him fluent in English but also sparked a lifelong love affair with reading.

Piña’s interests extended beyond academics. He participated in soccer, swimming, Tai Kwon Do, robotics, chess, and various volunteer opportunities, showcasing a well-rounded and engaged approach to life.

In high school, Piña was encouraged to apply to Pomona College’s PAYS program, which prepares underrepresented students for college. His acceptance into the program proved transformative. A class on quantum mathematics revealed his passion for the subject, and now he plans to major in mathematics at Brown, with aspirations for a career in tech or finance.

Reflecting on his journey, Dylan attributes much of his success to the support and encouragement he received along the way.

“My parents sacrificed so much to give me opportunities they never had,” Piña says. “I want to honor their hard work by achieving my fullest potential.”

As he prepares for the next chapter at Brown University, Piña looks forward to the endless possibilities ahead. His story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of education.

“Programs like STEAM:CODERS, Uncommon Good, and PAYS have shown me that with hard work and support, you can achieve anything,” Piña says. “I’m excited to see where this journey takes me and how I can give back to my community in the future.”