“I am excited to be graduating from Sonoma State University after many ups and downs, including taking two years off during COVID after receiving my AA at SRJC. As an undocumented student, the path was challenging, but the support I received from 10,000 Degrees had a great impact on my academic journey. They helped me tremendously with financial support and resources, and answered my questions and guided me as a first-generation student when no one else could.
A standout moment with 10,000 Degrees was the accessibility to free events and webinars, which provided crucial support during challenging times.
Education is important to me being the first in my family to pursue it, as a way to show that we can all succeed, regardless of our circumstances. Being the oldest sister of two siblings and the oldest of eight cousins, they have seen that we can do the unimaginable and reach our goals in all aspects of life. I have also helped my friends, sharing what I’ve learned from the resources I have. That’s how I want to change the world for the better: by showing that higher education is within reach for all of us, no matter our background. We all deserve the chance to expand our knowledge.
I am ONE Degree of Change because I hold onto the hope that one small step can create a ripple effect of positive impact.”