YSTAY Program Helps Local Graduate Achieve College Dreams and Inspire Others
June 3, 2026From Student to Leader: Granite YMCA Programs Help Local Graduate Achieve College Dreams and Inspire Others
Arielis Nunez credits YSTAY, Power Scholars, and Fidelity's Invest in Me scholarship with shaping her path to Saint Anselm College
Five years ago, Arielis Nunez was a middle school student participating in The Granite YMCA's YSTAY program. She later became a Leader in Training with the Y's Power Scholars program, helping young students improve academically and socially during the summer months. Today, she is about to graduate from West High School in Manchester and will be incoming nursing student at Saint Anselm College in the fall.
Nunez recently shared her journey during her graduation speech from YSTAY, reflecting on the program, mentors, and opportunities that helped shape her academic and personal growth.
"YSTAY was one of the most meaningful programs I have ever been a part of," Nunez said in her speech. "It gave me opportunities that many students don't always get the chance to experience."
Through The Granite YMCA's YSTAY program, Nunez received academic support, mentorship, and life skills designed to help young people build confidence, make positive decisions, and stay engaged in their education. She credits the program with helping her develop healthy boundaries, strengthen relationships, and focus on long-term goals.
"One of the things I appreciated most about YSTAY was having a safe space where I felt comfortable expressing my feelings and asking for help when I needed it," she said. "That kind of support made a huge difference in my confidence and growth."
Nunez also participated for two years as a Leader in Training with Power Scholars, where she developed leadership skills by working directly with younger students, assisting with activities, and serving as a role model.
"At first, I doubted my ability to lead others or take charge in those situations, but over time my confidence grew more and more," she said. "Being an Leader In Training taught me responsibility, communication, and leadership."
Her experience eventually led her to become an employee on The Granite YMCA with the Power Scholars program, allowing her to give back to the same organization that supported her growth.
"It felt rewarding to go from being a student in the program to giving back and supporting the next group of kids in the same way others once supported me," Nunez said.
As she prepares to begin her studies at Saint Anselm College, Nunez plans to pursue a nursing degree and a career dedicated to helping others. She hopes her story encourages younger students to embrace opportunities, seek support, and believe in themselves.
As part of her journey, Nunez was recently awarded a scholarship through Fidelity Investments Invest in Me program. The scholarship provides first-year college students with financial assistance to help them graduate with little to no debt, along with mentorship, financial education, and career readiness support.
Reflecting on her experience, Nunez described her journey in one word: "meaningful."
"Meaningful experiences, meaningful lessons, and meaningful people who believed in me and supported me along the way," she said. "I will always be grateful to the YMCA, the mentors, and everyone involved in these programs for helping guide me and shape my future."
Her story highlights the powerful impact of community-based youth development programs in helping students build confidence, discover leadership potential, and pursue higher education and meaningful careers.
About The Granite YMCA
As one of the state’s longest standing and most enduring non-profits, The Granite YMCA focuses on youth development, healthy living, social responsibility, and family strengthening. Across the state, its seven branches, and two overnight camps, engages 30,000 men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to improve their health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. In 2025, The Granite YMCA provided financial assistance and free services valued at over $1.6 million to 12,000 individuals. To learn more, please visit www.graniteymca.org.
