Empowering Futures: Vamos A College
Vanessa's commitment to educational equity began with her upbringing in Lancaster, California where her Mexican immigrant parents instilled a deep respect for education as a gateway to more opportunities. Inspired by her upbringing, Vanessa graduated from UCLA with a degree in Psychology and Education Studies. It was through her educational journey that she recognized the critical need for guidance in navigating the complexities of college admissions, especially for underrepresented students.
In 2024, Vanessa established Vamos College Advising Services, offering personalized one-on-one guidance to students and their families through the college application process. Vamos has become a pillar of support, providing expertise in college applications, scholarship navigation, SAT/ACT resource allocation, and more. Vanessa's mission is clear: to demystify the path to higher education, empowering students and families with the essential knowledge and resources for success. Her early career work with UC Berkeley’s DCAC enriched her expertise in college advising, further enhancing her impact in the field.
Research underscores the profound impact of access to higher education on individuals and communities. According to studies, individuals with a college degree tend to have higher earning potential, better health outcomes, and greater civic engagement compared to those without a degree. Access to higher education not only opens doors to economic opportunities but also contributes to social mobility and community development.
This fall, Vamos is collaborating with the city of Lancaster to introduce a series of tailored workshops for local students preparing for college. This initiative underscores Vanessa's dedication to enhancing educational access in her community and ensuring every student has the resources for higher education pursuits.
Vanessa's impact extends beyond Vamos. She continues to advocate for educational equity through her role as a board member for UC Berkeley’s Boost@BerkeleyHaas Program, where she learned the ins and outs of college advising. Her academic achievements include dual Master's degrees: one in School Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from Cal State University, East Bay, and another in Prevention Science and Practice from Harvard's Graduate School of Education. Equipped with this expertise, she now serves as a bilingual psychotherapist at Huckleberry Youth Programs, providing individual and group therapeutic services to newcomers.
Vanessa's journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and advocacy. Through Vamos, she is reshaping the narrative of college access, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has the support and guidance needed to achieve their academic dreams. Vanessa's dedication inspires hope and resilience, embodying the belief that with the right support, all students can navigate the complexities of higher education and realize their full potential.
Connect with Vanessa Instagram : @vamosacollege
