Volunteer Story: Rafaelito Sy

Volunteering for First Graduate® has given me an avenue to impart my passion for writing and storytelling to today’s youth. As an essay coach, I was paired with a young woman from the Philippines, who had turned financial struggles and a dysfunctional relationship with her paternal grandmother into fuel for growth and success. The happiness she expressed because of my help in articulating her story was personally rewarding; I brought her that much closer to her goal of higher education.

As a volunteer in the marketing department, I presently edit profiles of FG alumni for the Alumni Spotlight Project. The journey of every alumni – the will and determination each one possesses despite the odds – is impressive. They all have stories worth telling, stories that instill in us faith in the future, no matter our age. Being a conduit for their voices validates my purpose as a writer.           

Learn more about us:

Stay Connected

More Updates

FIRST GRAD’S SCHOLARSHIP TEAM

Despite how difficult they can be to get, it’s impossible to overstate the importance of scholarships. Especially for a first-generation student, a scholarship can be the difference between being able to go to college and not.

STAFF SPOTLIGHT: MARCEL

First Graduate® has helped more than 600 students in San Francisco to access college, with 75% of applicants graduating within six years.

Black History Month 2023

First Graduate® has helped more than 600 students in San Francisco to access college, with 75% of applicants graduating within six years.