Scholar in the News
Ahmad Ali Lewis isn't a typical Stanford undergrad - nor is he a typical rapper
Kimberly S. Woo
"Without my encounters with the adversity of welfare, the insight and passion that I hold for creating positive change would not be possible. Because of the challenges that I faced in this arena, I have emerged ready to change the world."
- Program: 2007 Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship Recipient
- Resides: Lexington, MA
- Hometown: Boston, MA
- Age: 25
- Community College: Bunker Hill Community College
- Four-year College or University: Harvard University
- Academic/Career Pursuits: Finance / Economy, Public Policy, Social Science / Anthropology
- Other Interests: Childcare, Government, Liberal Arts, Literature, Nonprofits, Public Policy, Public Services, Tutoring / Mentoring, Volunteer Work
Kim Woo - ABC World News Tonight |
|
Watching this video requires Flash 7 or higher.
|
Biography
As a child, Kimberly Woo escaped the difficulties of her family life with a full scholarship to a boarding school in New Hampshire. There she first grew aware of class differences. "Surrounded by students of wealth and prestige, I noticed quickly that a different sort of reality existed for my peers." She acquired a zeal for social justice, and joined Amnesty International and other service organizations.
After the birth of her daughter, Kimberly joined AmeriCorps and searched for college scholarships. She founded One Family Scholars, a program for homeless and at-risk mothers and enrolled at Bunker Hill Community College. "With an intense course load and three jobs, I have achieved a 4.0 GPA, been awarded scholarships, and become engaged in tutoring. I participate with One Family in public speaking engagements at various agencies to share my story and help break down the myths of family homelessness. I actively participated in legislative seminars at the State House and have met with senators to discuss policy adjustments in the housing and childcare arenas."
Kimberly credits the obstacles she faced for shaping her into the woman she is today. "I am honored to exist against all odds, and I will use this blessing to create justice for those who struggle to find their escape."
Other Scholars Like Kimberly
Tyra Dela Cruz
Undergraduate Transfer Scholar
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Barbara Ault
Undergraduate Transfer Scholar
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Matthew Loftus
Graduate Scholar
University of Maryland
Chat Travieso
Graduate Scholar
Yale University