I’m so proud to be a member of the 10,000 Degrees community. 10,000 Degrees has had a big impact on my life, first when I was a student and now as a 10,000 Degrees Fellow.

When I was in college, I was so grateful for the guidance I received from all the various members of the college access team and the Fellows that worked at my university. They taught me that despite being from a low-income, first-generation background, I could still take the necessary steps to pursue my dream of a higher education. Not only did they provide me with financial support, but emotional support as well. I always heard words of encouragement from the Fellows who worked with me, and I made some of my best friends through 10,000 Degrees.

I just graduated from Sonoma State University this past December with a degree in sociology, and now, I’m a Fellow at 10,000 Degrees. Being a Fellow, I can see what a difference we make for students, just like I experienced in college. The role allows us to be impactful and insightful, and to inspire students to believe in themselves. We have a hand in influencing a student’s path to and through college—that’s powerful.