Hi everyone,

My name is Angel, and I am a first-generation Mexican-American pursuing my Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Southern California (USC).

For the past seven years, I have dedicated my career to supporting students, families, and staff within the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). Starting out as a cafeteria worker, I worked my way up to becoming a paraprofessional assistant and school climate advocate. Working hands-on in our schools taught me the vital importance of trauma-informed care, advocacy, cultural humility, and fighting for social justice in underserved communities.

Growing up in East Los Angeles, I experienced firsthand the intersectionalities of economic hardship and systemic barriers. Those challenges didn't hold me back—they instilled in me a deep resilience and a passion to empower children and families who feel unheard. After earning my Bachelor of Social Work (BASW), I leaped to pursue my MSW so I could obtain my license (LCSW) and specialize in child welfare and youth mental health.

To fully dedicate myself to the intensive demands of my graduate coursework and field practicum (putting in over 56 hours a week), I had to make the tough decision to step down from my job at LAUSD. I saved aggressively for years to fund my dream, but tuition and program costs for the Advanced MSW Standing at USC have created an unexpected financial gap.

Why This Is Urgent: I am facing an immediate deadline: I need to raise $8,000 by December to clear my tuition balance and secure my registration for my next set of advanced classes. Without these funds, I risk pausing my degree right before the finish line.

Every dollar raised goes directly toward tuition and essential academic fees at USC so I can continue my field placement and graduate on time.

How You Can Help:

• Donate: Any amount—whether it’s $5, $25, or $100—makes a direct impact toward keeping me in school.
• Share: If you aren't able to donate right now, sharing this link with your friends, family, and network means the world to me.

Thank you so much for believing in my journey, supporting my dedication to our youth, and helping me bring my Social Work Heart to the communities that need it most.

With immense gratitude and Trojan Pride,

Angel