Our Students’ Voices
Intern Blog
Our interns’ first-hand accounts of the issues public school students face today. This space is for students’ voices, personal experiences, and grievances about the public school system to be heard. Read their takes on class sizes, teacher diversity, mental health programs and so much more!
Why Teachers Can’t Afford to be Teachers
Nikki has wanted to be a teacher since 8th grade. But now, as an adult, she has to reckon with the reality that being a teacher in the Bay Area is not financially sustainable.
No Wonder We have a Teacher Shortage
Jennica has always dreamed of becoming an elementary school teacher. Yet with the cost of living in the Bay Area and the salary of teachers. She has put her teaching career on pause.
When Your Education is Determined by Your Zip Code
Nayeli has seen how the quality of education varies depending on the area one was raised in. Read the whole blog to find out more!
Why Should Young People Even Be Interested in Politics?
Young people are the future of politics, and Nikki knows that. Read why young people should get involved here!
Resources That Can Come From a Well Funded School
Jennica is currently a student at Chico State. At Chico State they have made it their goal to provides resources that will benefit and help the student and faculty members.
Raise Funds for Students, Not Corporations
As a university student, Nayeli has first-hand experience of how lack of funding effects marginalized students on campus. Read more to learn how hispanic students are fighting for space and funding at UC Berkeley
The Unfortunate Reality of Teaching Post-Quarantine
The increased use of substitute teachers rather than an increased salary for credentialed, ready to teach educators is appalling!
When the FAFSA is Harder to Navigate than College
Because of this year’s FAFSA update, Nayeli has had to apply for aid more than twice! Safe to say, she felt alienated by the institutions that were supposed to uplift her.
One of the Lucky Ones
Nayeli has experienced an extreme example of discrimination in public school. Read more what her family had to do about it
Why Funding Schools Matter!
Jennica has had a mix of both private and public school education growing up. Find out what she differences she noticed.
When Community and Education Come Together
Recently graduated with her Bachelors of Arts in Sociology, Nikki Crishen tells us about her journey to college and beyond was strongly influenced by her academic community.
Struggling to Eat: The Harsh Reality of Being a Working Student
Jennifer's blog confronts the harsh reality faced by students like Angel, exposing the inadequacy of California's support system that offers a mere $32 a month for groceries to those struggling to survive, highlighting the urgent need for substantial systemic change.
Power to the Youth
Tran shares her personal insight into the unique circumstances that have fueled Generation Z's activism, challenging stereotypes and highlighting her unwavering determination to make a difference.
Mental Health Progress Isn’t Over Yet!
Jules recognizes that mental health has come a long way, especially destigmatization. But we still have a long way to go. Read more of Jules’ blog and learn what an average UC Berkeley student has to go through to get mental health help.
Authentic Caring is Vital to the Success of Students of Color
The way our education system is set up is very focused on the metrics of success. Read Jennifer’s blog and see what would really help our students of color succeed in our schools.
Two AA Degrees and No Debt
Four-year university has always been touted as the key to economic mobility. But jumping straight into a four-year isn’t feasible for every student. Read Arin’s blog and learn how important community college is for different students.
English Learner Students Are Our Biggest Forgotten Demographic
Volunteering as an English Language coordinator at Berkeley’s local high school, Jennifer has real world experience with how our schools are failing our most vulnerable kids.
The Story of a Girl on Permit
When the only option for students to get quality education is to travel to a more affluent school district nearby, it is not surprising when students feel alienated and out of place. Read more about Arin’s experiences in a well-funded high school. Was it all that it was made out to be?