Daisy Montes and Melissa Benitez Lopez

Recorded March 22, 2022 Archived March 22, 2022 55:34 minutes
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Id: dda003088

Description

Coworkers Daisy Montes (26) and Melissa Benitez Lopez (22), who are academic advisors at KIPP schools in Northern California, talk about their journeys as first generation college students, reflect on how they approach their work, and remember their time as KIPP students themselves.

Subject Log / Time Code

MB talks about how things have come full circle in her work at KIPP and shares about a student who went from failing her classes to being on the honor roll.
MB talks about a moment where she was in a job she didn’t like and calling DM to ask for support and guidance, and now she is doing that for her students. MB talks about the unconditional love that she strives to give to every student.
DM says she is very proud of MB, and MB talks about how she admired DM for many reasons. She talks about feeling isolated at Santa Cruz because of her identity as a first generation student and a Latina. DM and MB talk about being Latinas at predominantly white schools in the UC system.
MB talks about a specific student who called her about a breakup, and they were able to talk and relate with each other. MB stresses that she is able to show up for her students because she has the example of DM.
DM talks about how some of the strong Latinas around her have inspired her to keep going.
MB and DM talk about whether or not they imagined themselves coming back to KIPP. They further discuss some of the people that came before them. MB and DM discuss what it was like for them to come back as alumni.
DM talks about the shift from college or bust to being open to success through other avenues besides college.
MB talks about how success is like a living document, she has redefined it over time. DM shares that it has also changed for her, specifically through the goals she set for herself. They both express that success means helping their students the best they can.
DM and MB share advice for her younger selves.
DM and MB talk about what it means for them to be part of KIPP.

Participants

  • Daisy Montes
  • Melissa Benitez Lopez

Recording Locations

KIPP Public Schools Northern California

Venue / Recording Kit

Partnership Type

Fee for Service