As a graduate student at California State University, Bakersfield, Venessa L. is keenly focused on completing her Master of Social Work degree. But it doesn’t stop there for this 1,000 Dreams Fund Scholarship winner; a doctorate degree is next! “The odds were stacked against me,” she says. “However, I realized my education was my only hope for a future and supporting my daughter.”

What is your professional dream?

I want to obtain a Doctor of Psychology Degree (Psy.D.).

How will you use the 1,000 Dreams Scholarship?

These funds will be used to purchase textbooks for the semester.

How is this scholarship helping you get closer to your dream?

This scholarship is alleviating the financial stressors of a full-time and non-working student, therefore allowing me to focus on my studies and pass my courses.

​What advice do you have for other young women who are wanting to pursue their dreams?

You can do it! Showing up is half the battle and perseverance will get you through it, I promise!

​Have you had any setbacks? How did you move past them?

Yes, I’ve had many setbacks. I faced homelessness as an emancipated foster youth and became a single mother. I was able to overcome these challenges by building relationships with my advisors, professors, and colleagues. The support I was able to find and rely on motivated me to keep going and I am forever grateful to everyone who has supported me.

What’s next for you? What is your next goal?

Graduation in May 2023! After obtaining a Master of Social Work degree, my next goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Then, my plan is to hopefully get back to school to obtain a Doctor of Psychology degree (Psy.D.).