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R&DE Stepping Stones to Success

Read how Stepping Stones to Success has transformed our students' lives: 

Mary Ann Kupu

“It is wonderful to have this program right here where I work. No driving, no traffic, I just walk downstairs to class, and take a computer class during my break. Thanks to the SSTS program, I was able to learn how to use the computer, which has helped me take care of things like ordering meds from the Kaiser pharmacy. It’s been great. Everyone should take advantage of this program.”

Mary Ann Kupu
Food Service Worker II
Arrillaga Family Dining Commons,
R&DE Stanford Dining, Hospitality & Auxiliaries

Antonio Gutierrez Segovia

“Before enrolling in the SSTS program, I couldn’t help my children with their homework. I didn’t know or understand what they were working on at school. Then I enrolled in the SSTS computer class, the English class and now in the GED. I have learned so much. Now, I’m able to guide my children about their school work. In addition, I’m much better in English and can communicate with my supervisor and my team without feeling nervous or lost.”

Antonio Gutierrez Segovia
Lead Custodian
Kennedy Graduate Residences,
R&DE Student Housing

Olivia Jacobo

“I enrolled in the Citizenship course. After the course, I applied for the American citizenship. And, I couldn’t believe it when I was told that I passed the test and am NOW a citizen. Being a citizen made me feel more secure and have more benefits. With the course, I was able to learn English and pass the citizenship test.”

Olivia Jacobo
Housekeeping
Stanford Guest House,
R&DE Stanford Dining, Hospitality & Auxiliaries

Hilda Pelaez

“I am very tired when I finish my workday, but when I see my teachers, Christine and Frank, I’m very excited. Until three years ago, I did not understand anything, nada, zero. I understood only one word my supervisor said: ‘clean.’ Now I am very proud because I understand my supervisors, the nurses and patients. I am not scared anymore when I order at restaurants or talk to immigration officers while visiting my mother in Mexico. For me, English is beautiful now.”

Hilda Pelaez
Housekeeping
Stanford Health Center

Lizette Hernandez

“My time spent as a part of the Stepping Stones to Success Program was great. It was a privilege to continue working with the same class and welcome new students as well. Not only did I continue to build relationships with the current students, I also saw them grow in their skill sets and never doubted their commitment because of how hard they work. I admire the tenacity with which they come to class after a long day of work. This was my second year involved as a tutor, and each year I learned more and more about what it means to be a good teacher.”

Lizette Hernandez
SSTS Tutor, 2015-present
International Relations, Class of 2017

 

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