Y2LEF Blog

Through this blog, we aim to share inspiring stories from our dedicated staff and provide valuable techniques that students can utilize throughout their academic journey. We hope that these resources will motivate and guide students towards successful higher education experiences. Join us as we embark on this journey of learning, growth, and empowerment. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter future for all.


How I became Passionate about Higher Education

Gabriel Adame - Executive Director


“My parents Inspired me to go into higher education” said Gabriel Adame, Executive Director of Y2L, who was raised by teen parents and his grandparents who worked in the fields. Growing up he was surrounded by negative influences, yet his mother always encouraged him and his brother to pursue a higher education. 


Although Adame’s mother didn't get her Bachelors until later on in life, he took her advice and went to Bakersfield College after high school. Adame took multiple years to complete his education and graduated from California State University, Bakersfield with a Bachelors in Science.


Now he is a passionate advocate for youth who are underrepresented in Kern County wanting to pursue a higher education. Looking back on how college has changed him he says, “ It has taught me how to be responsible, disciplined, and the importance of time management, which are all skills that I use till this day.” As a college graduate Adame understands that navigating the complexities of higher education isn't a walk in the park but he illustrates, “ Never give up. I stopped going full time mid way through my college years but I always took one class and because I did that it kept me in the mindset of school.”


The future for higher education is constantly changing but the experiences are full of skills used in any career field. 

Y2LEF New Blogger

Autumn Layton - Marketing Intern

Hello everyone, my name is Autumn Layton. I am the new Marketing Intern here at Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation. I just recently graduated from Cal State Bakersfield with my Bachelors in Communications and a minor in Sociology. 


Now that I have been through college I'm working at Y2l because I want to help others do the same. This blog will consist of updates, and  information about the different services that we provide here at Y2L. The staff members here are very passionate about helping students pursue higher education as a career option. 


There are many financial services and opportunities that we provide, and along the way we will take a deep dive into the various options. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions. (alayton@y2lef.org) 

4 Apps / Websites for Academic Success

Autumn Layton - Marketing Intern

As a college student there are many things put into place to help you succeed. In my opinion there are a lot of apps  and websites that have helped myself and those around me make college easier. Aside from Canvas, which all students will use to view their classes, there are some additional apps to download and websites to use. Here are some  that I would consider to be helpful for your college experience.


1. Rate my Professor 

After a semester or two of college you will start to learn more about your learning style, which will allow you to pick a professor that teaches according to your preference. The professor is just as important as the class that you take. Some are heavy test takers and others rely more on assignments. The Rate my Professor website will give you a sense of what to expect from that particular professor. There are some students that leave very expressional comments, but if you see a common trend there's some truth to it. All of the comments and ratings are anonymous, so no student feels the need to hold back. This app will make registering for classes more clear on what will be expected of you from that professor. At the end of each semester don’t forget to make your own comments about each professor you have taken. Whether the experience was good or bad, it's in everyone's best interest for you to share how you felt about the class. In order for it to remain helpful for students you should contribute to the ratings by expressing your opinion. This website helped me tremendously throughout my college career.


2. Handshake 

In college there are plenty of events to attend and job opportunities. In order to see what your campus offers, Handshake promotes both opportunities to students. This app is very helpful when it comes to registering for events on campus and applying to jobs on and off campus. Handshakes is still useful after college as well. There are tons of internship / job opportunities that will look great on your resume. When uploading your resume and cover letter an academic advisor from your college will proofread it to make sure you're putting your best foot forward. Although most campus events are sent through your school email, Handshake clearly gives you the information to explore each event with no hassle. I have applied to a lot of jobs and internships through the Handshake app. It's the one stop shop for a college student looking for a job.


3. Linked In 

This app is used mainly for job searching but it is best used for networking. Having a profile will help you connect with people near you and professionals all over the world. It's basically a social media app for your academic achievements / events. When you attend an event on campus take a photo of yourself or the flyer to post on to your linked In page. It shows that you are involved on campus and interested in many different things. There will be many people from your school there expressing their opportunities and interests. Not only should you post but be active there as you would on Instagram. Follow people you know on campus and like, comment, and share their posts. Make it your goal to get on LinkedIn once a week to engage with others' content. Post your job position, inspiration photos, events and watch the employers come to you. 


4. EasyBib 

Writing papers is a part of college no matter your major. During your general education courses you will have to write at least one paper. One of the biggest changes from high school papers to college papers is the formatting. You were probably used to writing in MLA format but now professors have different formatting preferences. There is ASA, APA, MLA, Chicago and more. They will specify which they prefer and you can use EasyBib to cite your sources for your reference page. Once you are complete with your paper you can also copy and paste it on the website to check grammatical errors and plagiarism. It is essential that your papers are proofread before you turn them in. 

The Best Student Discounts you Need to Know  

Autumn Layton - Marketing Intern

Grants, scholarships, and student loans are all there to help college students succeed but there are also other discounts that are available for students. There are two apps that have helped me save lots of money when it comes to other essentials outside of school. The UNiDAY’s and Student Beans apps have helped me get discounts on Apple Music, electronics, clothing stores and much more.


All you need to do is register through your school email and then you will have access to multiple discounts. The discounts mostly apply to online shopping which is still beneficial. Both apps have similar discounts from the same stores but there are a few that are different. 


You can have both apps or see which one works best for you and delete the other. I personally believe that it's best helpful during the holidays and birthdays, but you could just want to treat yourself. These apps have changed the way I shop online and in the process I have saved a couple of bucks. 

2nd Hand Books And Resources

Autumn Layton - Marketing Intern

College can be expensive and the best way to save money is by buying books that are used or by renting them. After that specific class you will probably never need the textbook again, so it's best to rent them unless you generally like the book. Here are some alternative places to buy books and other school supplies to lower the cost. 


1. Amazon

The first option I would consider is Amazon as a way to rent or buy new/used books. They offer Student Prime accounts that help with fast shipping and it's roughly $5.99 a month depending on when you create your student account. They have many college textbooks for cheap prices and renting them is even cheaper. I previously had a regular Amazon account, then I switched over to the Student Prime account to save money and receive my books sooner. It was a huge help, and I typically opt for purchasing used books over renting. All of the used books I've acquired have arrived in good condition. If you are an avid Amazon customer then this option will be perfect for you during your college journey. 


2. Chegg

The second option would be Chegg. I haven't visited their website until more recently and have noticed a few changes. They have recently expanded their website and the services that they provide. Now they have career resources, study resources, and book options. The difference between Amazon and Chegg is that there are always rentals available on Chegg, Amazon can be a hit or miss. The rentals are for a 5 month period and then you ship them back. The prices are relatively the same but still a good option for renting, buying, or selling books. You can also explore the other resources that are available on the website.


3. Facebook Groups 

The last, and most overlooked option are Facebook groups. If you are like me and you have a Facebook account to connect with family members, then your best bet is to also use it for buying and selling school supplies. You can join groups that are for your college campus and you will find plenty of people selling old books and other equipment. I have seen people selling furniture, school supplies, baby clothes, graduation gear and much more. There are roommate opportunities and different housing options there as well. The first two weeks of school, I would go and search the CSUB Buying and Selling group for text books and other supplies. I would advise that if you decide to meet somewhere public, ensure your safety by having someone go with you and be cautious of scams.


There are plenty of other options for school supplies, but these three have helped me save a penny or two in college. I compare all three platforms at the beginning of the semester to see what best fits my budget. If I don't need to use the book again, I’ll donate or sell it to another college student. It's the gift that keeps on giving. As a past college student sharing resources is important and helps build a sense of community. 

Y2L'S 2023 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Autumn Layton - Marketing Intern

Alicia Martinez is one of Y2L’s  scholarship recipients from last summer. She is a South High School graduate who now attends UC Irvine.


When asked how the Y2L scholarship helped during her freshman year, she said, “This scholarship along with the Chancellors for Excellence scholarship has helped me not have to worry about paying for college”.


Martinez also gives her roommates, friends, and professors credit for helping her pass all of her freshman quarter classes. UC Irvine is on a quarter system where a student spends 10 weeks in a class and it can be very fast paced. As a Psychological Science major, which is still a fairly new major at UCI, it was the best fit for her because it will open more doors for her future career as a mental health therapist. 




Balancing Acts: Navigating college and Americorps Services with Success

Autumn Layton - Marketing Intern

In the whirlwind of lectures and assignments, one student stands as a symbol of purpose, weaving the ability to nurture adolescent high school students while getting their college degree.


Juliana Perales is currently a Junior at CSU Bakersfield majoring in child adolescent and family studies. As of Fall, 2021, she has been working part time at Y2L with the AmeriCorps team. Perales is working with Mira Monte and Vista West high school students throughout the week mentoring them.“It's more one-on-one support and checking if they need anything. We help with resume building, discuss everyday living habits, how to apply for a credit card, how to start a savings account, financial aid, and scholarships opportunities,” said Perales. 


When working with students from different backgrounds there are a wide range of small or big situations that you will help them through. “I see their integrity and determination to strive despite the circumstances they're going through,”said Perales. One in particular was a student who was dealing with homelessness. This student (who has to remain anonymous) was couch surfing while working long hours at Starbucks. “She was so optimistic and it rubbed off on me to feel grateful and to give the best services possible,” said Perales. 


High school students have so much to deal with nowadays compared to high schoolers before the pandemic. Now that we are 5 years from that world wide epidemic, students are dealing with the pressure of finding a job right after highschool. “I want to give them more support and information about education and how far it can get you because that's one thing that people can't take away from you,” said Perales. There are so many different ways to make money that it will have most high school students overlooking a college education. College isn’t for everyone but don't count it out due to someone else's experience. 


Being there for others is just as important as being there for yourself. Juggling a partime job and college is not easy and Perales makes it her duty to have a self care day and enjoy some of her hobbies. Exploring new coffee shops, traveling and walking her dog are all things that she enjoys doing on her off time. She is expected to graduate in Spring of 2025 and one of her goals is to attend graduate school to get her masters degree. 


When asked about advice that she would give to incoming college students, Perales said,“ Take your time graduating, sometimes it can be a lot of pressure to graduate in 4 years. It's different for everybody, that's what makes the experience so unique,” said Perales. 


Mind Matters: College Students and their Mental Health

Autumn Layton - Marketing Intern

As a college student there are multiple challenges that you will face and one of the biggest ones is your ability to maintain your mental health. Mental health issues are often intertwined with the experience of being a college student. There will be periods of uncertainty where you may feel academic stress and it's best to talk to someone about it. According to the American College Health Association (ACHA) Spring National survey “Over 55,000 undergraduate students revealed that approximately 76% are experiencing moderate to severe psychological distress” (Bryant, Welding). The causes for these issues could be a range of reasons such as loneliness, financial stress, and or personal struggles. 


Since the month of May is about Mental Health awareness, I wanted to bring to light the issues that some college students face and how they overcome them. In the pursuit of academic success, finding friends may not be high on the priority list. It's hard to meet new people you can trust especially if you move away for college. All of these factors can play into loneliness and it could cause students to have FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). The best way to combat this is to put yourself out there to make new friends. When you interact with people you will start to realize that others are going through the same thing. Jessica Lei, a Junior majoring in Nursing at California State University, Bakersfield learned how to manage her time to better her mental health. The main thing that helps with Lei’s mental health is engaging with her friends. “Holding in your stress can deteriorate your mental and even physical health, so it's best to reach out to the people closest to you for help,” said Lei. It is also important to take time to yourself and do some things that you might enjoy. 



Getting help from those who are around you seems to be the most affordable option but you can also seek help from a professional. Jocelynn Landon, a Junior at Cal State Bakersfield majoring in Communications, has discovered ways to manage her anxiety. Landon goes to therapy twice every month no matter how she feels. She also talks to her friends when in need of some support. There are also professionals on your college campus to help you through any negative thoughts. At CSU Bakersfield the Counseling Center is open Mon - Friday during the Fall and Spring semester from 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. There is also a crisis line that they provide if you need them after hours. During the semester, CSUB also hosts events centered around mental health. “I have walked away from those events feeling more empowered and less alone,” said Landon. No matter the college campus there will be counseling services available to you as a student. 


The journey through college is a unique experience and it comes with many ups and downs. Prioritizing your mental health is just as important as your academic goals.


By acknowledging the challenges you face and seeking help on or off campus can help you on your path to success. Remember you’re not alone in this journey, and there is help and hope available to you every step of the way.


Y2L's Summer Adventures: Crafting Futures, One Camp at a Time

Autumn Layton - Marketing Intern

Y2L’s  Upcoming 2024 Summer Camps


The summer is approaching and there are many different things that people can do to have fun and enjoy their time away from school. One being family vacations and the other being fun academic summer camps. For those who hunger for knowledge and seek to engage their minds during the summer, Y2L’s summer camps are the perfect blend of fun and education. Academic camps provide a unique opportunity for intellectual growth, personal development, and social connections. So whether you are interested in literature, STEM, or college readiness workshops, read on more to learn about these exciting summer programs.


1. Math Academy 

Math Academy will be held at Rancho El Chorro in San Luis Obisbo from June 7th - 9th. This weekend camp will have about 50-60 middle school students from Kern County. Participating students will spend their weekend engaging in fun math activities and gaining knowledge from guest speakers. 


2. Algebra Academy 

This 4 week program will be held at University of California, Santa Barbara where each week a different group of middle school students from different districts within the Central Valley have the opportunity to attend. With week 1 beginning on June 23rd and running until July 19th. Students will be able to learn tips and strategies for problem solving, both mathematically and in everyday life experiences. During the duration of the week there will be various algebra enrichment activities, cultural awareness and leadership workshops. 


3. STEM Institute

STEM Institute is a 2 week program held at the University of California, Santa Barbara from July 6th - 19th. There will be approximately 50 - 70 students learning about various educational and career opportunities in STEM. In addition, they will have the opportunity to hear from professionals within the field of STEM sharing their experiences, and knowledge.


4. Pre-College / Yo Puedo! 

Pre-College/ Yo Puedo is a week-long program running simultaneously at UC Santa Barbara. The Pre-College camp catered to incoming 9th grade students to prepare them with the knowledge and tools t0 begin high school. Participating students will take three classes that will cover literature, writing and college readiness as well as have the chance to engage with guest speakers who will provide guidance on navigating the college experience. Yo Puedo is a camp for 10th and 11th high school students. This portion of the camp is focused on character development, leadership skills, the importance of financial aid, and much more. Not only that but they will also acquire skills to support them not only in the upcoming school year but also in the future to prepare them for higher education.


Each camp offers a unique blend of academic challenges, hands on learning experiences, and personal growth opportunities, that are catered to diverse learning styles. From STEM focused programs fostering problem solving and innovation, to college readiness based camps nurturing creativity and critical thinking skills. These 4 summer camps are not just a break from the routine but a transformative experience that has the power to shape a students life for years to come. 


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