Program areas at Upward Scholars
Upward Scholars fulfills its purpose by offering academic, financial, holistic, and career development programs to adult immigrant community college students throughout San Mateo County and Alameda Countys Peralta Community College District. Our four pillars of support are: Financial Support to lessen the burden of attending college, including free textbooks, course materials, and laptops, transportation assistance, grocery gift cards, and support for other college costs, as well as a Safety Net Fund that assists students with basic living expenses. Academic Support, including community and peer tutors, opportunities to improve English skills, peer learning facilitators, assistance with scholarship applications and applications for transfer to four-year universities, and an annual Graduation Celebration. Career Development, including vocational and entrepreneurship programs to foster students careers as interpreters, nannies, business owners, and teachers, and mentoring. Holistic Support to foster students physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being, including counseling, resource navigation, and written references. In 2023, our goal was to serve 400 students; however, we served 477 students.