Dear family, friends, and community members,

 

 

I’d like to share some exciting news with you: I have recently accepted admission to the Stanford Graduate School of Education’s Teacher Education Program (STEP). For the next year, I’ll be pursuing my goal of receiving a Masters in Education while completing the requirements to receive a teaching credential.

 

 

As a first-generation undocumented woman, pursuing a career in education has been challenging. I faced many difficulties accessing and affording a higher education and connecting with resources as an undocumented student in high school. Even throughout my undergraduate career at UCSB, there was doubt that I would even graduate due to the political climate and what that meant for someone like me, who lacked legal status. When I graduated from UCSB I immediately began working to help support my mother. Once the pandemic began, both my mother and I were unable to work due to being laid off or year-and-a-half-long workplace closures. Therefore, I am incredibly grateful to have been offered the opportunity to work with and support students of color and their families as they attempt to navigate the K-12 education system. 

 

Unfortunately, I have recently been informed that financial aid will not cover any of my living expenses. I know these are trying times for many of you, and I am conscious of how much of an ask this is, but even the smallest contribution will help offset the costs associated with moving out of Southern California, finding housing in the Bay Area, and other necessary living expenses (food, transportation, testing fees, etc.)

 

 

I am conscious of how much of an ask this is. Any support—even sharing this GoFundMe with your network—will help. If you feel more comfortable donating through Venmo, my Venmo is @islasmariel

I am so thankful for all the support I have received throughout this process. If you have any questions or would like to about the program, you can contact me through this fundraiser page.