A first-generation college student and the first woman in her extended family to pursue higher education, Yadira Machen shatters barriers to achieve her dreams. With help from the True Blue scholarship, she’s turning her challenges into opportunities.

“Don’t ever think you can’t go to college because of financial issues—you can. There are so many options. If someone else can do it, why can’t you?” Machen said.

Now in her second year at Boise State, she is pursuing a degree in Business Administration and Management, with a minor in Accounting. Available to Boise State students on the basis of need and academic achievement, the True Blue is making her journey financially possible.

Since her senior year at Payette High School, Machen has been drawn to accounting. She started her professional journey as an assistant to Teresa Beer, CPA, gaining hands-on experience in auditing, public accounting, and managing client accounts. Two years later, Machen still works with Beer and hopes to earn her Certified Public Accountant license. Eventually she’d like to start her own accounting firm.

“This aid has allowed me to be at peace. I don’t have to stress about paying for school. I am very grateful. [The True Blue Scholarship] has set me up for success,” said Machen.

The True Blue Scholarship allows students like Machen to focus on their work in the classroom. Machen’s success, fueled by the True Blue Scholarship, demonstrates the value of hard work and determination — and the critical role that scholarships play in providing opportunities for students to achieve their dreams. With sights set on becoming a CPA and owning her own firm, Machen’s story testifies to what happens when those with potential are given the chance to succeed.