From Student to Mentor: Alina’s Study Hub Empowers Students

Author:

Communications

Mar 26, 2025

Celebrations Student Success

In a world where every student deserves a path to success, one high school senior is creating opportunities and making a lasting impact. Laurel High School senior and first-generation college-bound student Alina Urena is leading an initiative that is changing the lives of fellow students. Her project, Alina’s Study Hub, is providing free tutoring and college prep resources to those who need it the most.

“I’ve reached more than 500,000 accounts on my Instagram page, I have over 300 active users on my website, and I’m on the road to hit 400 followers,” said Urena. “But it's not about getting as many people as possible. It’s about reaching that one person where I can really change their life or really be there for them the way maybe their family, friends and teachers aren’t. I’m glad I can just have an impact on their lives. It’s about quality, not quantity.”

Alina’s Vision: Breaking Barriers to Academic Success

Launched in 2024, Alina’s Study Hub is more than just a tutoring service. It’s a platform designed to level the playing field for students who might not have access to extra academic support outside of school. Alina understands firsthand the challenges that come with being a first-generation college student – challenges that can include a lack of guidance on things like SAT prep, college applications, and even the basics of financial literacy.

Since its inception, the hub has already made a tremendous impact. Over 300 students have benefited from its resources, including tutoring, SAT preparation, and AP exam support. Alina is not stopping there. She’s already expanding the hub to include workshops on crucial skills like financial literacy, time management, and effective study strategies. These are the kinds of skills that not only help students in school but also empower them to succeed in life.

Watch Alina’s Vision!

A First-Generation Success Story

Alina’s drive and determination have earned her a spot and a scholarship at the University of Maryland College Park this fall, where she will be majoring in Business Administration. She currently holds an impressive 4.5 GPA and has taken nine Advanced Placement (AP) courses throughout high school – demonstrating both her academic excellence and her commitment to challenging herself.

Her own journey is a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance. Alina’s achievements are not just for herself but also for the countless students she’s supporting through Alina’s Study Hub.

In addition to her academic successes, Alina is also an active member of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), where she is learning how to network and honing her leadership and business skills. This year, she placed in her first FBLA competition in the Impromptu Speaking category, urged by FBLA sponsor and IT teacher, Deborah Hill.

Continuing the Mission in College

One of the most inspiring aspects of Alina’s story is her commitment to continue the work she’s started with Alina’s Study Hub even as she transitions to college life. Alina plans to keep the hub running while she’s at the University of Maryland, expanding her platform and ensuring that students in Prince George’s County continue to have access to the resources and support they need to succeed. Her dedication to this cause is a powerful reminder that helping others doesn’t have to stop at graduation – it can grow and evolve as you do.

The Numbers Tell the Story

The numbers behind Alina’s Study Hub highlight its growing impact:

300+ students have already received tutoring and academic coaching.
The platform has offered guidance on college applications and scholarships, helping students find opportunities they might otherwise have missed.
Support for AP exams, SAT prep, and even dual enrollment courses has been offered to help students excel academically.
Upcoming workshops will cover topics like SAT prep, financial literacy, time management, and study tips.