“10,000 Degrees doesn’t just help students get into college, it walks with them through the entire journey. They understand the responsibilities, pressure, and uncertainty first-generation and immigrant students carry—even after being accepted into college—providing consistent guidance, accountability, and a sense of belonging. For me, 10,000 Degrees believes in me even when I struggle to believe in myself.”

Dominican University, 2026
College of Marin, 2024

“Beyond financial support that always arrived at moments of critical need—the 10,000 Degrees relationships I built were the catalyst to my professional success. 10,000 Degrees staff, mentors, and volunteers helped me prepare law school applications, provided emotional support while I studied for the LSAT, and continue to provide career advice. This support goes beyond a nine-to-five commitment; it is a passion that changes lives. It certainly transformed mine.”

10,000 Degrees Alumni Changemaker Semi-Finalist, 2025
Labor & Employment Attorney, Vedder Price (CA) LLP
University of California, Davis School of Law, J.D., 2019
University of California, Berkeley, B.A., Sociology 2012
Santa Rosa Junior College, A.A., Social & Behavioral Science, 2010

“As a 10,000 Degrees alum, I’ve seen the ripple effect firsthand across families and communities—graduates giving back, strengthening their communities, and leading in meaningful, diverse ways. That is what I aim to do as a filmmaker and educator—mentor emerging talent and amplify underrepresented voices in my own community.”

10,000 Degrees Alumni Changemaker Honoree, 2024
Filmmaker and Educator
San Francisco State University, B.A., 2017