The OC Pathways Student Ambassador Network is welcoming its 2026-27 class, with approximately 100 Orange County students gathering this week to begin their journey. Former ambassadors Rylee Robles and Sophia Le are returning to share their experiences and how the program helped shape their leadership, college, and career paths.
Robles and Le both found opportunities through the program by deciding to learn more. Ambassadors, in grades seven through 12, represent their schools and districts, elevating student voice in career technical education pathways. They collaborate with peers countywide, connect with industry professionals, help organize events, and complete yearlong impact projects addressing school and community needs. OCDE’s Educational Services division facilitates the network.
Rylee Robles, a Los Alamitos High School graduate, initially signed up as a greeter at her first OC Pathways Showcase, nervous about public speaking. She recalled significant growth in confidence for professional presentations and group engagement. In seventh grade, Robles competed in the OcMaker Challenge, designing the "Key Train" prototype, which sparked her interest in engineering. She later returned to the competition as a judge. As an inaugural Student Ambassador, Robles helped shape the program’s expansion. She is now a second-year industrial and systems engineering student at the University of San Diego.
Sophia Le’s involvement began through a connection with OCDE leadership while she represented California at a national STEM convening as a Westminster High School freshman. This led to opportunities to organize events, present at countywide conferences, and advocate for student involvement in science and technology. Le sought to learn all she could, and found stepping up allowed her to give back to her community. She is set to attend Pomona College this fall to study molecular biology and data science, with plans to pursue biomedical research.
In 2024, Robles and Le helped lead Orange County’s AI Student Convening, presenting insights on machine technology to hundreds of students. Robles noted the power of representation, realizing the significance of opportunities for younger students, especially after one expressed a desire to become an engineer. Le also recalled a younger student wanting to become a student leader after her presentation, which reminded Le of her initial motivation.
Both alumni emphasized the Student Ambassador Network connected them with mentors, fostered collaboration, and provided opportunities to manage wide-scale projects, developing leadership skills they still use. This year, Robles' younger sister joins the 2026-27 ambassador class, pursuing business and fashion. To new students, Le offered advice: "Take the leap, say yes and learn how to be comfortable with the uncomfortable." Orange County students and families can learn more about the program on its webpage.
