Leaving his home in a migrant community, Francisco sets off for college, carrying memories of years of poverty and prejudice. This volume is the autobiographical account of the author's transition from migrant living on California's central coast to the life of a college student. He chronicles his college years and introduces the people who befriended him as well as those who had prejudices against Mexicans. Throughout his story, the difficulties of his transition from family life to college life are evident. His palpable fear of failure was mitigated by those who helped him recognize his worth and develop and strengthen his character. The book ends as he is bound for graduate school at Columbia University. The author poignantly relates his family's struggles and how their teamwork enabled him to attend college. While the book relates his trials and successes, it also describes how his family members overcame their own obstacles.

Sequel to: Breaking through and The circuit.

College bound -- Moving in -- Initiation -- Unexpected turns -- The making of a soldier -- A compromise -- Cervantes Hall -- Reaching out -- A stranger's gift -- Making ends meet -- At a loss -- A Christmas break -- It didn't fit -- Crossroads -- Soul Mate -- Home away from home -- Paisano -- In a cell -- A secret revealed -- An American citizen -- Memories of a barrack -- In Solidarity -- Providence -- Commencement -- A note from the author.