From West High School to Degree: How Campos Turned Possibility into Reality | Denver Scholarship Foundation

Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF) Scholar Angel Campos is graduating this May from Metropolitan State University of Denver with a bachelor’s degree in business marketing. As he completes his college journey, he reflects on how DSF supported him through every step—starting in 9th grade at West High School to college, and now, his transition to a career as a product marketing specialist at Vertafore. 

Campos, who chooses to go by his last name to honor his family, was born in Los Angeles, California, and raised in Denver, Colorado. He first connected with DSF through his  high school’s DSF Future Center and DSF College Advisor, Federico Rangel. 

“It’s important for students to understand their different options based on their interest, and know that college is possible and affordable,” said Federico. “DSF is here to demystify the cost of college and provide students with the necessary guidance and resources, so students can make it to their next step.” 

Making College a Reality 

Initially, Campos didn’t think college was an option, but with the help of Federico, they mapped out a plan—identifying the colleges Campos would apply to and explored potential careers paths. In high school, Campos was very involved in playing sports, including basketball, track and field, cross country, and other clubs that kept him busy.  His senior year was disrupted by COVID-19, which forced a shift to virtual learning, Campos remembers both graduating and starting college online.  

When in–person learning resumed, Campos began navigating his college experience more fully.  “Having my DSF Campus Advisor, Kevin, in my corner helped me understand what I needed to do to be successful in college,” he said.  

Kevin McNulty, Campos’ first DSF Campus Advisor remembers Campos as an excellent communicator and a very proactive and determined student. “He was commuting far north when we first met. One of the first things he asked me was how he could live on campus to ease the commute and get more involved”, Kevin recalled.  

Soon after, Campos moved onto campus and became a Resident Assistant (RA). Through that role, he developed vital skills such as conflict management, problem solving, event planning, and resource coordination, helping foster a safe and welcoming community for fellow students.  

Interning at DSF with Purpose 

Last summer, Campos reunited with Kevin and joined DSF as the 2024 Marketing and Communications Summer Intern. In this role, he collaborated with Kevin and the rest of the DSF team to update DSF Career Posters, which are utilized inside of DSF Future Centers in 15 Denver Public Schools (DPS) high schools highlighting exploratory career pathways, including salary information, higher education options, and DSF Alumni testimonials. Campos was particularly involved in identifying DSF Alumni to feature. Through his internship he also learned about project management and content creation.  

Now, as a proud first-generation college graduate, Campos expresses deep gratitude for the support he received throughout his academic journey. He is proud to be part of the Class of 2025 impacting many generations to come.  

Campos with his DSF Campus and College Advisors

“Being involved in DSF’s mission changed my life,” said Campos. “It started at the DSF Future Center at West, where I received the wraparound support and resources. Then came the DSF scholarship which helped financially, and the DSF Success team. That’s where I connected with my DSF Campus Advisors, which helped me in college and moving forward continuing to impact many students to come.” 

Celebrating Campos and Class of 2025 

DSF congratulates and celebrates Campos and all of the thousands of Denver students graduating from DPS high schools and DSF Scholars across our 30 College Partners throughout Colorado. As they go through the final steps toward graduation, DSF honors their accomplishment and reflects on the dedication it took to reach this major milestone. Their journeys open the doors to countless possibilities – and bright futures ahead.