When the pandemic cut her work hours, Yancy seized the chance to pursue a lifelong dream—earning a degree in healthcare. With support from Upward Scholars, she’s gone from ESL student to future medical assistant, determined to help others find the relief and care she once needed herself.
Read MoreFrom the vibrant kitchens of Peru to the childcare centers of the Bay Area, Kiara has followed her heart, guided by a love for learning and a desire to make a lasting impact on the lives of young children.
Read MoreWhen Erika signed up to tutor with Upward Scholars, she thought she was just helping someone improve their English. She never imagined it would transform her life—and the life of her student, Diana. From working the night shift at Burger King to earning a college degree, Diana’s story is one of grit, growth, and the power of human connection.
Read MoreWhen Moisés arrived in the U.S. in 2017, he took a landscaping job to support his family—but he never let go of his dream of working in tech. He started learning English, opening the door to new opportunities. Today, thanks to Upward Scholars' support, Moisés is studying Computer Science and getting closer to his goals. But his journey hasn't been easy.
Read MoreIn 2016, Jennyfer migrated from Peru to the United States with a clear vision: to learn English, obtain a higher education, and build a better future. With limited economic prospects back home, she saw the U.S. as a land of opportunity, where she had nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Read MoreHappy National Volunteer Month! 🌟 Join us in spotlighting Kelsey, one of our exceptional tutors and tech support volunteers!
Read MoreMeet María, a remarkable member of the Upward Scholars family! 🎉
Read MoreHappy International Women’s Day! To commemorate the day, we introduce you to the newest member of the Upward Scholars team, Kainat Khan! 👏🎉
Read MoreMeet Upward Scholars student Slimane, a Moroccan immigrant studying biotechnology at Berkeley City College. 🧪🔬
Read MoreYésika was born and raised in La Habana, Cuba. Her passion for the arts led her to the University of La Habana, where she delved into the worlds of philosophy and humanities. Her dream was to teach art, but the political landscape of Cuba did not align with her aspirations.
Read MoreDulce left her home in Querétaro, Mexico, to join her sister in the United States in 2005. She quickly enrolled in English classes at Sequoia Adult School to increase opportunities in her new home.
Read MoreIn honor of April being National Volunteer and Financial Literacy Month, we are pleased to introduce Eric Takaha, Upward Scholars' Board Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Committee!
Read MoreIntroducing the newest member of the Upward Scholars team—Estefanía Estrada! Estefanía is a current Upward Scholars student at Berkeley City College and Merritt College and has recently joined the team as our first Student Intern in the East Bay!
Read MoreIf going through a global pandemic wasn't challenging enough, Natalia's entire life turned upside down when she became a single mother and sole breadwinner for her family after separating from her daughter's father in 2020.
Read MoreYadira (left) quickly realized the importance of speaking English and getting an education when she immigrated to the U.S. With Upward Scholars' support, Yadira was one student who was able to keep herself and her seven family members in their home during the pandemic.
Read MoreThis week's Meet the Family Friday is a special anniversary shoutout for Anuj, who celebrated 3 years of serving on the Upward Scholars Board of Directors last month!
Read MoreOne student whose life the Safety Net Fund significantly impacted was Claudia. Claudia came to the United States to raise her daughter and to give her the life she always dreamed of
Read MoreToday's Meet the Family Friday is an extra special one as we celebrate the 4-year anniversary of our executive director and inspiring, tenacious, and nurturing leader Dr. Linda Prieto.🥳🎉
Read MoreIn honor of Diwali next week, we highlight proud Upward Scholars volunteer Akshay!
Read MoreMeet the Family Friday is here, celebrating current Upward Scholars Operations Manager and student Marta! 🙌🏼
Read More
