Alumni Series: A Voice for More Than Myself
March 24, 2026
There are moments in a person’s journey that quietly shape everything that follows. The people who remind you of what’s possible, the environments that challenge you to grow, and the values that stay with you long after you’ve moved on.
For many Alliance scholars, those moments begin in the classroom.
As part of Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting Alicia Chavez, a current Alliance senior who has already begun to turn her purpose into action. Recently accepted to the University of California, Berkeley through early decision, her story reflects a deep commitment to advocacy, leadership, and community.
In the following interview, Alicia shares more about what drives her, how Alliance has shaped her path, and the perspective she carries forward as she prepares for what’s next:
An advocate at heart: What drives you to advocate for Alliance schools and scholars?
I’ve seen firsthand how easy it can be for young people in our communities to get caught up in things that take them off course, and I felt helpless watching it unfold. I think that’s why I’ve always felt drawn to people who are experiencing difficult circumstances. It’s what drives me to advocate because I know there are other ways to find happiness and healing, even through the hardest parts of our lives. I try to show people that they have options, that they’re not alone.
That’s what the Ugarte Civic Youth Fellowship was all about for me. We were recognized by the City of LA, the California State Senate, and even the U.S. Congress. I’ll never forget holding that certificate and feeling so proud, not just of myself, but of everyone who worked alongside me. Nine of my peers and I also earned $1,000 scholarships through that program. And in communities like ours, that’s not just a win for the scholar, it’s a win for their entire family.
I know what that kind of recognition means in low-income neighborhoods. It makes you want to keep going, keep showing up, and keep pursuing higher for yourself and for everyone around you.
Beyond the classroom: How have you seen Alliance impact not just scholars, but families and neighborhoods?
It’s in the name—College-Ready Public Schools. They help you build the academic skills and the communication and networking tools that are, honestly, just as important. A lot of scholars think, “I have a high GPA, I’ll be fine,” but college is a whole different world. You have to know how to speak up with confidence and stand out.
Alliance puts us in real-world spaces where our voices matter, and those moments teach you how to lead. One example of that was when I was given the opportunity to speak at Huntington Park City Hall for a development permit on behalf of my school. I was nervous, but I realized I wasn’t just speaking for myself. I was advocating for my entire school.
My school also gives back. In our Health & Medicine Club, we host blood drives and community events that bring people together to serve. Alliance shows us that education is about more than textbooks, it’s about building a community that supports one another. Even our CEO, Pablo, hosts workshops with families. You can feel the care. And when scholars and parents see that, it makes them want to stay.
A community that stays with you: What do you wish more people understood about the power of this community?
Honestly, when I first saw my school, this small building tucked at the end of the street, I didn’t want to go. But once I stepped inside, everything changed.
Alliance shows you that even a small school can do big things. Through Civic Leaders of America, we logged over 2,000 hours of political engagement and nearly 7,000 hours of civic leadership last year, from interning to hosting multi-school conferences at LA City Hall. That’s not just schoolwork. That’s transformation.
Alliance also makes you a leader. Even if you don’t see yourself that way, you’ll find yourself leading, whether it’s speaking at events, starting a club, or helping your community. They don’t say, “This is the one path to success.” They open every door and let you choose the one that fits.
What I wish more people understood about the power of this community is that it’s about belonging. It’s about leadership that looks different for every person. It’s about seeing scholars as more than test scores and giving us the tools, space, and voice to create real change.
Alicia’s journey is a reflection of the impact of an Alliance education unfolding in real time. It shows up in the way scholars find their voice, advocate for their communities, and step into leadership in spaces that once felt out of reach.
As she prepares to begin her next chapter at UC Berkeley, Alicia carries forward not only her own ambitions but a deep commitment to creating opportunity and belonging for others.
