Attending a world-renowned research university, UCLA, has pushed Nicole Vences to continue to challenge herself. Post graduation she followed her passion of working in the educational realm. As an AVID tutor and afterschool instructor Nicole learned the work needed to mold and motivate young minds. Although she loved working with children, she felt that there is little room for growth without a master’s degree in education. Not ready to commit to a huge educational and financial commitment, Nicole decided it was time to explore other interests such as the nonprofit sector.