Carlos Aldana

I first got involved with 10,000 Degrees in my senior year of high school through their Summer Intensive Program, learning everything I needed to know about college. They supported me through my senior year with college applications, financial aid, and guidance once I was in college. Without 10,000 Degrees, I probably wouldn’t have attended college. Beyond prepping me for college, 10,000 Degrees fostered a supportive community. By networking with similar people of a similar mindset, we all realized that we could attend college and built a community of friends. This program takes a holistic approach, offering not just scholarships, but also mentoring, resources, and consistent check-ins. Supporting 10,000 Degrees is important to me because they help first-generation, low-income students break the cycle of poverty through education. They expand educational opportunities to underserved students in often overlooked Bay Area communities, ensuring that no one gets left behind. After graduating, I joined the Peninsula South Bay Advisory Board to give back and support the next generation. As a 10,000 Degrees alum with knowledge of the South Bay, I aim to provide unique insights that can help empower our youth to make a positive impact on the world.

‘From Campus to Global Impact’ debuted at the 2024 ONE Amazing Community Gala