Delta College students shared personal stories of trauma and resilience Oct. 15 at the Dreamers Success Center during Pushing Ahead, Living into Legacy: Avanzando el Legado, a wellness event led by Dr. Felipe Mercado.

The program, part of Undocumented Student Action Week, examined how childhood trauma physically impacts the brain and can shape identity and academic performance. Mercado, an assistant professor at California State University, Fresno, and founder of Wise Souls LLC, helps schools and communities build trauma-responsive systems.

Mercado said students with adverse childhood experiences, such as abuse or incarcerated family members, have a 17 percent chance of completing college compared with 70 percent for those without such experiences. 

He explained neuroplasticity, noting that when students feel safe and connected, their brains “turn on” and begin building new pathways for learning.

Mercado offered what he called “wisdom from the streets to academia.” His advice included building self-belief, seeking mentorship, staying focused on goals, creating positive environments and embracing authenticity. 

Student ambassador Tina Rocha, a digital media and English major, said the presentation helped her connect her own medical history to Mercado’s science. 

“I did not know that the traumas that we experienced really impact our brain,” Rocha said. “My strokes happened in those regions that are most impacted.”

A triple stroke survivor, Rocha said her strokes occurred within months of each other while she cared for her dying mother. She added that Mercado’s presentation emphasized the importance of connecting through storytelling. 

“We have a human need to connect through our stories because we don’t have to have the same background to connect,” Rocha said. “It’s invaluable to know that we have a tribe.”

Second-year digital media student Yaritza Vaca said Mercado’s message of persistence and resilience resonated with the Stockton community. 

“No matter your background or struggles, you can become successful,” Vaca said. “Stay persistent, motivated, and surround yourself with the right people.”

Mercado’s journey from homelessness, incarceration and addiction to becoming an Emmy Award-winning advocate and six-time Amazon bestselling author now shapes his wellness work.

During the discussion that followed, Digital Media Professor Adriana Brogger praised Mercado’s ability to connect with students. 

“It’s incredibly powerful to hear a real story,” Brogger said. “In today’s rush of life, we very rarely get to hear someone’s authentic narrative.”

Brogger told students they represent the next generation of leaders. 

“We’re looking at future educators and policymakers,” Brogger said. “Instead of wishing, let’s lean into what we can do.”

Rocha encouraged other students to attend similar events at the Dreamers Success Center.

 “You’re going to connect with others,” Rocha said. “You’ll hear something that resonates. Little by little, you find greater purpose.”

The Dreamers Success Center provides free legal and counseling services for undocumented, immigrant, AB 540 and DACA students.