Claudia Armendáriz ‘10 (Ethnic Studies, Social Welfare) made her parents proud this spring as the first in her family to graduate from a four-year university. This strong-willed young woman credits the encouragement of her family and the supportive community of fellow scholars in The Achievement Award Program (TAAP) as the keys to her success at Berkeley.

“Being a low-income first-generation college student shaped my experience at Cal. Without the financial, academic, and social support provided through TAAP, I would not be a senior graduating with honors from the best public university in the world,” notes Claudia. TAAP provides more than financial aid for students; it also equips them with tools to be successful scholars. A suite of program support, including mentorship from the Cal Alumni Association staff, helps scholars better navigate Cal.

TAAP requires scholars to complete volunteer work, and the program’s emphasis on giving back to the community has influenced Claudia’s post-graduation plans. After a summer of humanitarian volunteer work in Louisiana and traveling through Spain, Claudia will return to California to prepare her law school applications.

Earning a J.D. is the next step toward Claudia’s ultimate career goal of founding a legal aid nonprofit organization and serving as the executive director. “I find the personal satisfaction of empowering someone by asserting their rights unbeatable,” states Claudia.

Receiving a scholarship and benefiting directly from the generosity of others has inspired Claudia to give back to our community in more ways than one. As part of Cal’s senior gift campaign, Claudia made her first gift to campus, designated specifically to TAAP. Her gift will help support and inspire future scholars, and in her words, “makes a difference that will echo throughout generations.”

To join Claudia in the community of donors who support TAAP, please make a gift today.

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