‘Massachusetts’ Stories

Learn how one mentor worked through the ups and downs of high school with her mentee and helped her prepare for the next chapter in her educational journey.

The pathway from a high school diploma to a postsecondary degree is not always a straight line. For OneGoal alum in Massachusetts, Esvin Ruiz, the journey has been full of unexpected detours, including several frightening health challenges and financial setbacks.

As school districts across the country pivoted to distance learning and many decided to close for the remainder of the school year, we’ve shifted the way we do our work as well.

OneGoal’s effect on John Morales’ life was a slow burn until he woke up and realized that he was on the exact path towards his dreams. He now balances between running his own business and continuing his studies at the University of Massachusetts – Lowell.

Drew Woodward, Director of Guidance at BMC Durfee High School in Fall River, Massachusetts, was instrumental in bringing OneGoal to his school two years ago. Here he reflects on why he took a chance on a new college access-and-success program.

Celinette V. doesn’t hesitate to admit that she brought a lot of attitude to the OneGoal classroom in her first year of the program. But as her Program Director earned her trust, she found a mentor who helped her rethink her future. Here she shares the top lessons from her Y1 experience.