When Jasmine was just three years old, her life changed in a way that would shape her future. Her parents, facing challenges they couldn’t overcome at the time, made the difficult decision to have Jasmine and her siblings live with their grandparents. “I always dreamed of having that perfect picture family,” Jasmine recalls. “But looking back, I feel blessed. My parents did what they thought was best for us.” 

Growing up in a full house with her grandparents, aunts, and uncles raising her and her three siblings wasn’t always peaceful, but she knew she was surrounded by family who were there for her. “It was never quiet,” she laughs. “But it was beautiful because I was surrounded by love.”  

Jasmine first connected with Pivotal through her Independent Learning Program (ILP) case manager and one of her aunts who was a social worker. She started her freshman year at San Jose State with a Pivotal scholarship but quickly realized that Pivotal could help her with far more than just financial support. “My coaches were amazing,” she says. “They helped me set goals, reminded me to celebrate small wins, and even guided me through the grad school application process.” 

Those small wins mattered. Her coach helped her see that she didn’t have to do everything all at once. 

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That mindset shift changed everything. "If my workload got overwhelming or my past trauma came up, I was always able to reach out to my Pivotal coach for support, advice, and guidance.” Jasmine found focus and her coach helped her build a plan to identify and achieve her goals. An internship through Santa Clara County’s Intern and Earn program at Valley Medical Hospital allowed her to complete her required 80 hours of job shadowing. With Pivotal’s support, Jasmine graduated in May 2025 with a degree in Child Development and a focus on community.  

But she’s not done yet. Ever since high school, her dream has been to become a pediatric occupational therapist. “I’ve always loved working with kids,” Jasmine explains. “They all have their own unique stories and personalities, and I want to be there to help them and be a role model.” Shortly after she graduated, one of her aunts passed away. She had raised Jasmine and inspired her to go to college and always move forward toward the things she wanted most. Her passing hit her hard. “I had applied to graduate school, and I didn’t get in, and honestly, I think that was the universe telling me I was not in the right place mentally to start that at that time.” 

After taking a little break, she’s back on track, applying to graduate programs and continuing toward her dream career. 

Through challenges and loss, Jasmine has stayed true to her goals. “Life doesn’t always go as planned,” she reflects. “But I’ve learned that you don’t have to have it all figured out. Taking little steps still help you move forward.” Today, Jasmine works with the Boys and Girls Club, supporting kids from pre-K through eighth grade. She loves her work and is excited to be living out her passion while building the future she once dreamed of.