Overcoming Academic Challenges
Pursuing my college degree presented several challenges, with academic difficulties being the most significant. As a first-generation student, I lacked the guidance from family that many others had, making it tough to navigate the demands of higher education. Adjusting to rigorous coursework meant I had to quickly learn time management and meet high expectations. It often felt like I was figuring things out on my own. These struggles pushed me to develop the skills and determination needed to succeed.
The Lifeline of 10,000 Degrees
10,000 Degrees has been extremely helpful throughout my college journey, providing much-needed support. It truly felt like I had a dedicated team behind me. Whether I needed help with financial planning or academic advice, I always knew I could reach out to them. For example, when I transferred from SF State to the University of the Pacific, I didn’t know how the process worked. I reached out to 10,000 Degrees, and [my Fellow] Sam was incredibly helpful, along with the financial support. Being part of 10,000 Degrees gave me the confidence to overcome obstacles, knowing I had a network to rely on whenever I needed assistance or resources. As a first-generation student, it’s hard to navigate something new, so having support systems is always nice.
Driven by Family and Passion
Attending college has profoundly impacted my family. They are incredibly proud of my achievements, especially as I approach graduation. Their support and sacrifices have been my motivation, even when things got tough. Coming from an immigrant family, I’ve seen firsthand how they put their dreams aside to allow me to pursue mine. Their sacrifices are the foundation of my success, and I carry their dreams with me every step of the way. Growing up, I struggled academically in almost every subject and never felt I had a strong suit until I found my passion for helping others. This became the drive I needed to persevere in higher education and become a healthcare provider.
Making a Difference Through Oral Health
I am deeply passionate about giving back to my community through oral hygiene education. As a former dental assistant for four years, I was motivated to continue my education and become a dental hygienist. My goal is to make a difference by providing high-quality oral healthcare to low-income communities, a group that often lacks access to the care they need. I aim to promote the importance of oral health and raise awareness about the links between gum disease and systemic health conditions. By improving oral health education and access, I hope to make an impact on people’s lives and their overall well-being. I am ONE Degree of Change because I am committed to using my education and experiences to create lasting change in my community and beyond. I believe in the power of education to change lives because it allows me to give back to others.