MARTHA FERRERA

I am a single parent of three children. About two years ago I was struggling to pay rent and provide basic needs for my children. I made a difficult decision to apply for Cash Aid with Social Services in order to give my children a better life. The CalWORKs program allowed me to go to college and get enrolled into the Saddleback College Cosmetology program. Soon After I became part of the EOPS/CARE program. The EOPS/CARE program provided me with the counseling and support I needed to start school again. College was very difficult for me because it had been so long since I was in school, I didn’t know the basics of registering for classes or navigating the school system. I was very lost and didn’t know where to start. The EOPS/CARE Counselors assisted me and answered all of my questions. I have pleasantly surprised myself with how well I have done in college. It hasn’t been easy being a full-time mom, full-time student and working part-time. I have one more semester left in the Cosmetology program and I am very proud of myself for getting straight A’s. Once I finish the Cosmetology program, I would like to continue my education by enrolling into the Barbering program which will make me more marketable when looking for a job. Unfortunately, Financial Aid does not cover the Barbering program, so I am unable to afford it. The scholarship will help me continue my education.