For Pratham Tated, San José City College was more than a transfer point – it was a training ground. As a Technology & Information Management major, Pratham didn’t just focus on his degree; he immersed himself in the campus community, eventually serving as Student Trustee to advocate for his peers.
“Serving as Student Trustee allowed me to understand institutional processes and realize the power of using my voice to create change,” Pratham said. That sense of belonging and mentorship gave him the foundation to excel both inside and outside the classroom.
The scholarships Pratham received at SJCC were the catalyst for his success. By reducing financial stress, they provided the stability he needed to take on high-level leadership roles and earn the prestigious Pister Scholarship. “SJCC didn’t just prepare me to transfer,” he said. “It helped me believe in my potential and envision a future where I could truly thrive.”
Now continuing his studies at UC Santa Cruz, Pratham carries his commitment to educational equity into this next chapter. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that when students are supported, they don’t just graduate – they lead. As Pratham puts it: “Life is unexpected, try everything.”