I am reflecting on the value of a San José State University degree now that I have graduated. We all know how critical it is to graduate from college with the knowledge and skills required for successful careers that will enable us to take care of our families and help strengthen the economy. I am writing you because San José State needs you to give to the SJSU Fund today to help deserving students graduate to futures that are brighter because you care.
San José State students are not necessarily your typical students. We come from diverse backgrounds and many of us overcome big hurdles to successfully complete our education. Life is tough for a lot of students at SJSU. A high percentage of us work, often full time, while we take a full course load and balance the needs of our families. Yet we know our hard work and sacrifices are well worth the invaluable education we receive here.
We are proud that San José State is the number one supplier of business, engineering, computer science and education graduates to Silicon Valley. Did you know that the 2009 edition of U.S. News & World Report ranked us 13th among the West's top public colleges and universities offering bachelor's and master's degrees? Alumni and friends like you not only enrich our education through the programs and services supported by the SJSU Fund, but also make us feel that we're not in this endeavor alone.
Your financial support makes learning easier for hard-working students. Scholarships and other financial aid enable students to concentrate on their studies rather than working and worrying 24/7. Your generosity helps us get academic assistance when we need it, supports critical career guidance, provides counseling support through tough times, and affords us opportunities to relax and get involved with extracurricular activities. Because you care, we have access to a well-rounded education.
I was brought up with the concept that who you are is who you'll die. I believe, however, that it is up to each person to decide to change. I have worked hard to graduate this month with an International Business degree and a minor in Latin American Studies that I had never even considered possible while growing up in Mexico. I worked so my brother could afford to earn his bachelor's in physics here at San José State and his master's in physics at San Francisco State. He graduated with honors from both programs. Another brother will be returning to SJSU to work toward his degree. Our story is not unique – you will find similar stories all over campus. The one thing that binds us, though, no matter what our backgrounds, is that San José State gives all of us the opportunity to grow into the people we have the potential to be.
President Barack Obama recognized this potential when he shared in his speech to the Joint Session of Congress on February 24, 2009 that his proposed education policies would "open the doors for our children. But it is up to us to ensure they walk through them." I believe that we are the "us" he's referring to. We each have a stake and responsibility in the future of our country. If America once again has one of the highest proportions of college graduates as President Barack intends by 2020, more people will have the opportunity to make a better future not just for their families but -- through their contributions to the economy -- for all Americans.
It is up to us -- that means you and me -- to help San José State University be that beacon of hope that shines the way to a brighter future for all Americans through education. Give to the SJSU Fund today to transform the lives of San José State students and help them reach their full potential.
Thank you,
Catarino Vallin-Cruz
Class of 2009
P.S. The return on your investment will be immeasurable. More than 7,000 SJSU students graduate each year well-prepared for successful futures because you care enough to give to the SJSU Fund. Give securely online.
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