Meet the Family: Luis

Happy Meet the Family Friday and International Translation Day! 🎉 Today, we spotlight current Upward Scholars student Luis.

Luis is a Guatemalan immigrant majoring in English at Cañada College. He has received multiple certificates from Cañada, most recently a certificate in Bilingualism and Biliteracy in English and Spanish. He plans to obtain his associate's degree in English next year. At Upward Scholars, Luis benefits from our laptop, textbook, transportation, food assistance, tutoring, and career development programs.

With our help, Luis also transitioned from working in the food industry before the pandemic to his current job, working as a Spanish coach, interpreter, and translator. He is currently working with several partner organizations throughout the Bay Area to ensure linguistic equity for our community.

As an immigrant and an entrepreneur, Luis believes the American Dream goes beyond material success. He says, “The American Dream is the freedom to dream of possibilities.” And Luis appreciates all the opportunities Upward Scholars has made possible for him. "During the pandemic, Upward Scholars stood next to us like a true friend. They made sure we remained enrolled in college courses and surveyed us to identify our most urgent needs. More importantly, they always check in on us."

We are so proud of Luis and the business he has grown to be his sole source of income. He inspires and motivates his peers and our community every day.