Finding Purpose in the American Dream

October 10, 2024

In celebration of Latine Heritage Month, we are excited to spotlight trailblazing alum Jesus Gonzalez-Saucedo, a proud graduate of Alliance Dr. Mohan High School and Occidental College. As the son of street vendors in South L.A., Jesus transformed challenges into opportunities and soon discovered that his voice was the key to forging his path forward.

In the following interview, he shares how his family’s experience unlocked his greater purpose:

Before Alliance: How did your upbringing influence your perspective on education?

Growing up in South L.A., I saw firsthand how hard it was for my parents to make a living. As street vendors, they constantly faced arrests and citations for just trying to provide for my siblings and me. The system criminalized their efforts, and I knew that could easily be me one day if I didn’t take a different path. I also watched my older siblings go through their own struggles with the education system, and I learned what to do and what not to do. So I was determined to build something more for myself and my family. This pushed me to focus on my education and create a future that would break the cycle I was born into.

The Turning Point: When did you first recognize the power of your voice?

I didn’t realize the power of my voice until other people started believing in me. For a lot of young people, it’s hard when there isn’t someone telling them that their story matters, that their ideas and experiences have value. I had all these thoughts and ideas but couldn’t articulate them. It wasn’t until the right people—Alliance teachers, mentors, administrators—came into my life and showed me that I am capable, that my voice matters, and that people care. I’m grateful for a network like Alliance that helped me see my own potential and gave me the confidence to share my story and create change with it.

Looking Back: What was one of the most rewarding moments at Alliance?

At Alliance, I found my passion for public service. I had the opportunity to join the Junior State of America (JSA), which opened my eyes to the world of politics and policy. One of the most rewarding moments was during my senior year when I advocated for legislation that decriminalized street vending on a local level so that people like my parents could earn a living and support their families without the constant fear of losing their livelihood. Fast forward, I am now a policy advocate and lender working directly with the community I come from, including Black and Brown entrepreneurs. My lived experiences allow me to connect deeply with their struggles, and create both short-term and long-term solutions that are sensitive to their realities.

A Piece of Wisdom: What would you tell your freshman self now?

Don’t discount your story. Your experiences have so much value. And if you ever struggle to find a purpose, just think back to your community and where you come from.

Purpose in Action: What motivates you today?

My family and the youth motivate me. As an uncle, watching my nieces and nephews inspires me. Seeing how much I accomplished with limited resources makes me optimistic about what our youth can achieve now. While I no longer want to be a politician, I am grateful to have found other ways to make a difference.

Looking Forward: Where do you see yourself in ten years?

One of my aspirations has always been to be a policy director. In ten years, I envision myself engaged in more comprehensive work to bridge the gaps between traditional financial institutions and members of my community.

Paving the Way: What do you hope for the next generation of Alliance scholars?

I hope the next generation feels well-equipped and supported to tackle the challenges they face. Too often, we operate from a scarcity mindset. I want them to know they have the resources and tools necessary to solve the problems they face—at an individual, community and systemic level.

Jesus’ story is an inspiring reflection of the legacy we are building at Alliance. With more than 90% of our scholars and families coming from Latine backgrounds, we are honored to uplift the voices that have helped shape Alliance schools into the beacons of hope they are today.