The Graduates/Los Graduados Season 1 Episode 1 Girls

The Graduates/Los Graduados is a six-part documentary series that explores the lives of six Latino students from across the United States as they navigate the challenges of high school, college and ultimately, their futures.

In the first episode titled Girls, the viewer is introduced to two ambitious teenage girls, Stephanie and Chastity, both growing up in different parts of the country, but both facing similar challenges as they look ahead to their futures.

Stephanie, who lives in California and is the daughter of Mexican immigrants, is determined to be the first in her family to go to college. Despite having to work multiple jobs to help her family make ends meet, Stephanie is an ambitious student who places high value on her education, knowing it is her ticket to a better life.

Chastity, who lives in Texas, is also a high-achieving student, but she faces a much different set of obstacles. Chastity has grown up in a low-income family and is one of four siblings. She is determined to be a role model to her younger sisters and to set an example by not giving up on her dreams despite the challenges that arise.

Throughout the episode, the viewer gets a glimpse into the day-to-day lives of these two young women, including their struggles and challenges as they navigate high school. We see Stephanie juggling multiple jobs while still maintaining a high GPA and attending college prep courses, and we see Chastity facing the harsh reality of her family's limited resources and the sacrifices that must be made to achieve her goals.

The show also explores the role of parents and mentors in each girl's life. Stephanie's parents are supportive but unable to provide much financial assistance for college, while Chastity's mother is a strong figure who encourages her daughter to persevere despite the odds. Throughout the episode, we see each young woman grappling with the idea of leaving their families behind in pursuit of their dreams and how this impacts their relationships.

As the episode progresses, we see Stephanie and Chastity face larger issues around college acceptance and financial aid. For Stephanie, the hurdle is the SATs, which she is struggling to pass in order to be accepted to a top-tier university. Meanwhile, Chastity struggles with the complexities of applying for financial aid and trying to navigate the complex system of grants and scholarships.

Ultimately, the first episode of The Graduates/Los Graduados is a poignant look at the challenges and triumphs of two young women who have set their sights on a college education and a brighter future. Through their struggles, we see the significance of each individual student's experiences and how, regardless of their background or obstacles, with the help of supportive adults and a drive to succeed, they can achieve their dreams.