University of California, Merced Center for Educational Partnerships

550 E. Shaw Avenue, Suite 105

Fresno, California 93710-7702

January 15, 2019

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing this letter of recommendation on behalf of Jia Yi Miao, a senior at Merced High School. I am the
Gateway Scholars Program Coordinator and began working with students at MHS in November 2015. The
Gateway Scholars Program is an academic outreach program modeled after UC Scholars EAOP that promotes
and provides access to higher education through academic counseling, higher education workshops, and visits to
university/college campuses. Jia has been an active member of Gateway Scholars since her recruitment.

Jia is an extrememly hard working student who is determined to actualize her long term goals of post-secondary
excellence. She has utilized not just the enrichment activities provided by Gateway Scholars, but my academic
advising and personal growth advice as it pertains to developing resiliency and grit. Jia has a supportive family
who are small business owners and rely on family to keep their businesses thriving. Jia travels two plus hours
on the weekend to work at aunt’s restaurant and many times does not return until Sunday evening. This
devotion to her family means that Jia must employ acute time management skills Monday thru Friday to ensure
her assignments and studying are complete, as her weekends are spent working. She is a mature beyond her
years.

Jia has a personality and warmth that make all in her presence feel supported and included. I have often
observed her communicating with peers, offering advice and support. Those who know Jia respect her and hold
her in high regard. I have no doubt great things await this amazing student and that she will excel in all that she
pursues.

I am immensely proud of the work Jia has done and will continue to do, I wholeheartedly endorse her for
scholarship consideration. If you have any questions regarding Jia, please feel free to contact me at any time at
(559) 241-7476 or at pzarco@ucmerced.edu.

Regards,

Patricia Zarco, Gateway Scholars UC Merced Center for Educational Partnerships | Merced High School