Karen was born and raised in San Diego and was the first in her family to attend a four-year university. She received her Bachelors and Master’s degrees in Spanish – Literature and Linguistics from San Diego State University, where she found her passion in teaching and being involved with students. Part of growing up first gen included her very little knowledge about college and all the different things that come with it such as the application process and financial aid. She feels very grateful for all the support she received going through her college journey and she would love to be able to give back to her community and help others the same way other programs helped her.

“Be patient with yourself. Self-growth is tender; it’s holy ground. There’s no greater investment.” -Stephen Covey