Dear friends and supporters,

my name is Victor Rojas I am reaching out to you today with an important dream. One that will not simply further my education, but will be of benefit to many others in the future. My goal is to complete my Masters's Degree in Social Work at USC, where I'm enrolled. Currently, I also work full-time as a school counselor at Apex Academy, a high school located in East Hollywood.

Though my degree from California State University Northridge was in journalism, I decided my skills and life experience, dictated entering social work. I grew up the son of undocumented immigrants from Mexico and Honduras. Neither of them could read or write, either in Spanish or English. My experience was not unusual. My entire life, I’ve observed the struggles of many other hardworking families like my own.

I was the first in my family to graduate from a university and I know, firsthand, the difficulties other students face. After two years of working with high school students, the desire to truly serve my community has only grown.

The USC Masters Degree in Social Work will enhance my professional objectives, and allow me to work with a diverse group of individuals, including children, families, and vulnerable populations. My wish is to help others, who are disadvantaged and learn the skills that will help them overcome their own challenges.

My tuition and university expenses will total approximately $120,000. On my current salary and with ever-increasing living costs, I’m struggling to afford my education without assistance. Though I’ve never asked for help, I must now. Your donation, no matter how large or small, will make a huge difference in helping me become

a social worker and help others achieve their potential in life.