Next Stop: UC Berkeley

Senior Mentee Xiu Ying Yu received some unexpected news a few weeks ago. She was admitted to her dream school, University of California Berkeley.

Paralyzed from shock, Xiu Ying took a few minutes that evening to process the incredible surprise.

“I wasn't expecting to hear from any UCs until the end of March,” said Xiu Ying breathlessly. “Even now I still can't get over the fact that I'll be going to Berkeley!'“

Not only was her acceptance early, but Xiu Ying is a candidate for the Regents’ and Chancellor’s Scholarship. The award is the most prestigious offered to entering undergraduates by UC Berkeley. Benefits include a monetary award, priority registration, guaranteed on-campus housing, a Faculty Mentor, research fellowship opportunity, and financial aid advising.

“Only the top 1% of applicants are chosen as candidates. From all the candidates, 200–250 winners are chosen.” said Xiu Ying. “All I can do now is hope for the best and see if I get the full ride.”

Xiu Ying plans to major in business administration. Berkeley's prestigious business program was an obvious draw. Location was a close second.

“I still have a younger sister and grandparents living in San Francisco,” said Xiu Ying. “It’s important for me to be there for them whenever they need me.”

Deeply appreciative of her mentors support through high school and the college application process, Xiu Ying is ready to be a mentor herself.

“I’ve been a second mother to my younger sister my whole life,” Xiu Ying admits. “I want to be able to support her through her high school years, even when I go off to college.”

Ivan Magana, one of Xiu Ying’s mentors, describes her as hard working, responsible, and extremely mature for her age. 

“My favorite part of mentoring is hearing about Xiu Ying’s progress, and getting regular updates on everything she is doing,” said Ivan. “Whether she aced a test or class, or participated in a fun extracurricular activity, it’s always exciting to hear about her success.”

But Ivan was particularly excited to hear from Xiu Ying about her Berkeley acceptance.

“When Xiu Ying called me to tell me she was accepted to my alma mater, UC Berkeley, it was one of my proudest moments,” said Ivan. “I’m looking forward to hearing about all of her new adventures in college.”