[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/banner_2026_goals_scholars.jpg” alt=”goals scholars 2026″ title_text=”banner_2026_goals_scholars” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||63px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Ashley-Beristain-Palafox.jpeg” alt=”Ashley Palafox” title_text=”Ashley Beristain Palafox” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|800|||||||” text_font_size=”24px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Ashley Beristain Palafox<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
This scholarship means a lot to me. As a first-generation & low-income student, I\u2019ve had to balance school with supporting myself, which has been difficult.<\/p>\n
Being recognized in this way through this scholarship feels really meaningful and reminds me that my hard work matters. This scholarship would help take some financial pressure off and allow me to focus more on my education. I plan to pursue a master\u2019s degree, so this money would go directly toward that goal and help me continue my studies without as much stress.<\/p>\n
This scholarship also represents an investment in my future and the work I hope to do. I want to give back to underserved communities and support others who come from backgrounds like mine. This brings me one step closer to that.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/girl.jpg” alt=”Evelyn” title_text=”Evelyn” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|800|||||||” text_font_size=”24px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Denise Roberta Ann Vergara<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
This scholarship represents both relief and affirmation. As a first-generation immigrant from the Philippines and a student navigating financial, medical, and\u00a0personal challenges, this support allows me to continue my education at UC Berkeley with greater stability and focus.<\/p>\n
I intend to use the funds to support both my current educational expenses and my upcoming law school application process, including application fees, LSAT-related costs, and other essential expenses that can often be barriers for students like me.\u00a0More importantly, this recognition motivates me to continue the work I am deeply passionate about: supporting immigrant and underrepresented communities through service, advocacy, and future legal work.<\/p>\n
My long-term goal is to pursue a career in immigration law, where I can give back to communities like my own and help others access opportunities and justice.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/2-e1779764122944.jpg” alt=”Nikia Denetha Durgin ” title_text=”Nikia Denetha Durgin ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|800|||||||” text_font_size=”24px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Nikia Denetha Durgin\u00a0<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
I am grateful for the GOALS Scholarship, which offers students like me the resources to fully pursue our educational aspirations. Being ambitious can be expensive, with hard-earned opportunities coming with a price.<\/p>\n
The GOALS Scholarship ensures I never have to limit my ambition to afford my seat at the table.These funds will support my studies in UC Berkeley’s Summer Abroad Program, London & the Literary Imagination.<\/p>\n
I am truly honored that through my writing you were able to see me. That is an invaluable affirmation for someone in my position.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Merilyn-Navarro-Sanchez-scaled.jpg” alt=”Merilyn Navarro Sanchez” title_text=”Merilyn Navarro Sanchez” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|800|||||||” text_font_size=”24px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Merilyn Navarro Sanchez<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
I am a first-generation, low-income, and system-impacted Oaxacan student who comes from a single-parent mixed-status household. Coming from nothing to graduating from UC Berkeley with two bachelor’s degrees, receiving the GOALS scholarship means I am closer to my next goal of continuing my education in law school with a focus on immigration and civil rights.<\/p>\n
My reason for becoming a lawyer stems from my own lived experiences. I moved from California to Mexico to escape abuse, for safety. Living in an unfamiliar country was tough; cultural differences and my American accent made me stand out, and school was difficult due to bullying and a lack of teacher support despite my struggles with language. Although Spanish is my first language, my education in the U.S. left gaps that complicated my adjustment. I later returned to the U.S. to escape the abuse that was being inflicted on me in Mexico.<\/p>\n
I currently work at NAVCAL and The Public Service Center under Alternative Breaks: San Diego Immigration Rights and College Corps. These experiences have shaped why I want to serve immigrant and historically marginalized communities. I know the path ahead will be difficult, but I\u2019ve already faced setbacks, learned to adapt, and kept moving forward. The funds of the GOALS Scholarship will be for Law School, as I want to serve the communities I come from and be of assistance in any way, shape, or form.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Evelyn-scaled.jpg” alt=”Ashley Palafox” title_text=”Evelyn” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|800|||||||” text_font_size=”24px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Evelyn Dominguez<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Your support has given me the grace and time to breathe\u2026 and reinforces my belief that education is about creating change beyond myself.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Ashley Beristain PalafoxThis scholarship means a lot to me. As a first-generation & low-income student, I\u2019ve had to balance school with supporting myself, which has been difficult. Being recognized in this way through this scholarship feels really meaningful and reminds me that my hard work matters. This scholarship would help take some financial pressure off […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[15],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2169","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-news"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p9cLUf-yZ","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2169","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2169"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2169\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2172,"href":"https:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2169\/revisions\/2172"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2169"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2169"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.graduatesorganized.org\/home\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2169"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}