Then & Now
Then and Now: Celebrating the Journeys of A Bridge for Kids Alumni
At A Bridge for Kids, our mission has always been to empower under-resourced teens to achieve their full potential. Over the years, we've had the privilege of supporting numerous students, witnessing their growth from ambitious high schoolers to accomplished professionals. Today, we reflect on a few of these inspiring journeys, drawing parallels between their successes and the evolution of our organization.
Brianna Diaz | UCLA ‘19, BS - Psychology
“I beat the odds with A Bridge for Kids by my side.”
Then: Brianna Diaz, a first-generation Latina, faced the challenges of navigating the educational system without a familial roadmap. Her determination and resilience were evident, but she needed guidance and resources to fully harness her potential.
Now: Brianna has transformed her aspirations into reality. Her journey stands as a testament to the power of support and self-belief.
Nghi Dang | UCSD ‘20, BS - Public Health Management | UCSD ‘23, MS - Public Health
“I used to be afraid of getting out of my shell in high school to go explore different things the world has to offer. However, in college, I studied abroad in 10 different countries and truly "lived and experienced life". I took every opportunity presented to me and am no longer afraid to try anything new or be out of my comfort zone.”
Then: Born in Vietnam, Nghi immigrated to the United States at the age of three. Growing up in San Diego, her family faced financial hardships, relying on welfare and lacking basic necessities. Despite these challenges, Nghi's academic potential shone brightly.
Now: Nghi got her Masters of Public Health at UC San Diego, concentrating on Technology and Precision Health. She previously worked as a Community Food Coordinator at UC San Diego’s Center for Community Health, focusing on health equity within the food system. Additionally, she serves as a Resident Leader on the Alliance Healthcare Foundation Innovation Initiative Review Board. Nghi's journey from a young immigrant facing financial hardships to a graduate student and community leader exemplifies the transformative power of support and determination.
Thao Phan | Wesleyan University ‘21, BA - Psychology, Civic Engagement, & Education Studies
“I still have a great relationship with my sponsor. My relationship with my sponsor is invaluable. It is beyond how much the sponsorship gives you in dollars.”
Then: Growing up in City Heights, San Diego, Thao Phan faced financial struggles as a first-generation Vietnamese American. Her opportunistic spirit led her to The Preuss School UCSD and subsequently to A Bridge for Kids through our Annual Essay Competition.
Now: Thao now resides in New York, working for BNY Mellon in Private Banking. Her journey from San Diego to the East Coast, coupled with her enduring relationship with her sponsor, highlights the lasting impact of mentorship and support.
Parallels in Growth: Our Students and A Bridge for Kids
Just as our students have evolved and achieved remarkable milestones, A Bridge for Kids has also grown. Celebrating our 1000th sponsorship, we are reflecting upon our commitment to expanding opportunities for under-resourced teens. Our programs have diversified, encompassing mentorship, college preparatory assistance, and holistic support, mirroring the multifaceted growth of our students.