My name is Barry. For most of my adult years I was in and out of prison. The last time I got out I decided to try a different route. I had just been withdrawn due to nonpayment for health insurance. Honestly, if it were not for Joshua and the Underground Scholars program, I would not have graduated. The program not only helped me to get reenrolled, they also helped pay the previous health insurance bill (I already had insurance through my job at the state). This allowed me to register for my classes I needed to graduate. Even after Underground Scholars paid the fee, the University still dropped me from the classes, but this time I had the program to help, and they rectified the problem and had me reregistered without missing a beat. They helped with tuition when I was short. The program also helped with my cap, gown, and tassel. This ensured I was able to attend my graduation and walk across stage. Only negative thing I can say about the program is I wish I would’ve found out about it sooner!!! I think this program is ESSENTIAL for any ex-felon to navigate the UC educational system.
Warm Regards,
-Barry L.
The Underground Scholars Program has truly supported me throughout my journey of transferring to UC Davis. From helping me navigate the application process to connecting me with campus resources, they’ve been there every step of the way. They made the process feel less overwhelming and reminded me that I wasn’t alone. Their encouragement, guidance, and sense of community have played a significant role in my success so far, and I am incredibly grateful for everything they’ve done for me.
-Crystal P.
As a non traditional student, meaning I am a mother and an older student who returned to college after raising my kids older children, I was full of fear and anxiety if I could complete my degree.
Underground Scholars embraced me and we built a supportive community together. Finally, I found a space on campus where I was accepted regardless of the differences I may have. Our community is like a family, where we gather, support and learn together.
Through the support of Underground Scholars, the director Gunner Johnson and Trevor, I was able to persevere and graduate from UC Davis, achieving a lifelong dream and making it a reality.
I love the Underground Scholars family and have made lifelong friendships that I am grateful for.
-Jean T.
You guys overall are pretty awesome , I’ve had more involvement with underground than any other program on campus , inclusion , safe spaces , and many other opportunities for students who just might have different experiences compared to your average person attending a UC-just knowing there is a whole ass program that supports a different walk of life that others are not the most receptive too -can’t forget about just the emails of them checking in and saying hey how’s the quarter going , offering lunches during finals, the raffles, the grift cards, the trips they go in to conferences to further include others and so much more ! They make us feel normal and just that opportunity can be for everyone and anyone who wants it
They are amazing !
-Elizabeth J.
When I first came to UC Davis, I felt out of place and unsure if I belonged here. Underground Scholars changed that for me. They were there when things got hard—helping me with dental work and car repairs so I could keep getting to class—and they were there in the small ways too, giving me fresh fruits and vegetables, a safe place to study, and someone to sit down with me and explain financial aid when I didn’t understand it. They gave me the chance to go to the Beyond the Bars conference, something I never would have been able to do on my own, and it opened my eyes to a bigger community I’m proud to be part of. They have also welcomed my family into events, which has been incredible—not only because it made me feel supported, but because it showed my loved ones that higher education is possible for them too. Without this program, I honestly might have dropped out, but the support and the community I’ve found here have kept me moving forward. Volunteering with Underground Scholars has already given me a sense of purpose, and I’m excited to start working with them this fall.
My goal is to help other underrepresented populations see that higher education is possible, and my own journey with Underground Scholars is proof of what can happen when people are supported with the kind of holistic approach this program offers. I hold close the words of Josephine Baker: “I never took the easy path, always the rough one. But when I took it, I wanted to make it easier for those who followed me.” That is exactly what Underground Scholars has done for me—and what I hope to do for others. They’ve shown me that no matter what your past may hold, the future is yours to write any way you choose. More than anything, they’ve given me a place where I belong and reminded me that I deserve to be here.
-Sarah B.
As a reentry student, Underground Scholars has truly been a lifeline. The program provided me with a strong sense of community, academic guidance, and emotional support during my transition back into higher education. Knowing that I am not alone in this journey has given me the confidence to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and encouragement that Underground Scholars has created for students like me.
-Shakil C.
Thank you for your generous donations. Please allow me a minute to convey how important your support has been.
I could not think of what my life would be without The Underground Scholars Program. From the first day I walked into the office, I have been welcomed wholeheartedly. Trevor met with me to explain what the program is about and the resources they offer. As someone who has been affected by the justice system since an early age, I have struggled with housing and food insecurity. He reassured me of possible financial assistance and a completely filled pantry in the office open to anyone who needs it. I knew I was safe.
Here I've been able to connect with peers who have had similar experiences as myself, and I have even found someone in the same major as I am. I've been able to join a community here at UC Davis and focus my attention on studying. This Fall, I will be a senior finishing my first Bachelor's as a wildlife biologist. Afterwards, I plan to continue protecting California's wildlife and natural resources.
Finally, I want to add a special thank you to Gunner for his bold leadership. His past experiences have prompted him to be the perfect person to captain our ship. Again, thank you for all your support. I look forward to a bigger and better year than the last.
Highest regards,
-Sasha L.
I am happy to share that, I have culminated my two-year undergraduate career at UC Davis and was honored to celebrate it with one of the most impactful programs on campus Underground Scholars Inc.
I want to deeply thank the program for its continuous support and guidance to me and to fellow students. As a system-impacted and first-generation student, I faced many barriers, but the Underground Scholars Program made sure I had the resources, encouragement, and community to keep moving forward.
I am beyond and forever grateful for the opportunity to work alongside a team that is dedicated to changing systems and ensuring that formerly incarcerated and system-impacted students can accomplish their career goals and aspirations.
Thank you to the program director Joshua Johnson , peer staff Laurin Williams and Program Coordinator Trevor Clark for your unwavering support and commitment to the continued growth of the program.
-Rosa M.