Bridgeport teen accepted into 12 colleges, including Rutgers & Penn State

Despite her initial language barrier, the 17-year-old Kolbe Cathedral senior has been accepted into a dozen colleges, including Rutgers University and PENN State.

Frank Recchia

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Mar 12, 2025, 1:44 AM

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Updated 8 hr ago

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When Reni Mena came to Bridgeport from Ecuador with her family three years ago, she spoke no English.

"It was very difficult for me, but I watched a lot of TV shows in English and got a lot of help from my friends and classmates, and now my English is very good," Mena told News 12 Tuesday.

Despite her initial language barrier, the 17-year-old Kolbe Cathedral senior has been accepted into a dozen colleges, including Rutgers University and Penn State.

"It made me feel so proud to achieve that goal -- but I haven't decided yet which school I'm going to pick," she said.

Mena is one of 19 students taking part in the LEADS College Prep Program at Hall Neighborhood House on the city's East Side.

"We are so proud of her -- and of all of our kids," said program director Adiel Dominquez.

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