Luisa Sicairos

I first heard about EOP when I was just starting at City College of San Francisco; however, I heard about EOP a little too late. EOP at CCSF had so many different opportunities and financial support for students enrolled in the program. Once, I transferred to SFSU, my priority was to get enrolled with their EOP Program.

After graduating from college I had secured two-part time jobs at two non-profits. I taught high school students in the Bayview college access and in the Mission I taught financial literacy. From my work experience, I found my passion in youth empowerment and counseling. After a year, I transitioned to a full time position as a Coordinator position at the Mayor’s Youth Employment and Education Program (MYEEP). I have been working here for almost three years and have been promoted as a Youth Development Manager. The time I have spent with MYEEP has been challenging because I had to help with my brother’s mental health issues, but at the same time it helped me pilot a project called Inside Out. Besides being proud of obtaining a full time job and being promoted, I am very proud of this project because it brought a lot of mental health awareness into MYEEP and the organization as a whole. I created a safe platform for adults and youth to express memories that have strongly impacted their development as a person or leader.

My time with EOP ensured I graduated on time and helped me connect with individuals in the community that helped me obtain a job after I graduated. However, EOP was more impactful on my success by connecting me to my counselor Arlene who was welcoming, personable, and organized. She made me feel comfortable expressing my struggles with school and family and how all that would impact my overall success in school and after. Overall, because of EOP, I felt confident in my skills and had me wanting to continue my education.

In the words of Cardi B, “If you want it, and the more you keep hearing you can’t have it, you just go and get it.”