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Guardian Scholars Program/NextUp

Welcome!

Current GSP/NextUp Students

All GSP/NextUp students can login to your Canvas for current updates.

Become a GSP/NextUp Student

The Guardian Scholars Program (GSP) and the NextUp (NU) Program warmly welcomes college students who have experienced the foster care system. Our programs offer essential resources and a nurturing community. 

Isiah harper

"It doesn't matter how great your shoes are if you don't accomplish anything in them." 

Being in college and Guardian Scholars/NextUp has taught me the structure of achieving short and long-term goals, as well as the importance of money and time management. That quote, in my opinion, reflects both. -Isaiah Harper, Class of 2024 

Benefits & Services

  • Academic/Transfer Counseling
  • Priority Registration*
  • Financial Aid Support
  • Grant Assistance
  • Career/Vocational Planning
  • Social Gatherings/Community Outings

*Eligibility may vary

Eligibility Requirement

Provide a Foster Care Verification document  

If you need help locating your foster care verification, you can: 

  1. Ask your current social worker, or 
  2. Complete the online Californian Foster Care Verification Request Form and call 1- 877-846-1602, or 
  3. Visit or call the GSP/NextUp office for assistance 

Apply to GSP/NU

Meet Our Team

profile icon
Felicita Ocampo-Pedroza
Program Coordinator - Foster Youth Programs
Department: Special Programs & Services
phone 510.723.7123
location Building 700, Room 767R - 2nd floor
My Website
Felicita Ocampo-Pedroza is the NextUp Program Coordinator at Chabot College, bringing over a decade of experience in youth development, program enhancement, and data evaluation. With a strong focus on trauma-informed care and social justice, Felicita has held roles across nonprofits and K-12 educational institutions, excelling in building community partnerships, improving organizational systems, and advocating for justice-involved, system-impacted, and foster youth. They are deeply passionate about creating empowering, supportive environments that foster resilience and success in both education and career pathways, ensuring that youth have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
Elle de la Cruz
Elle de la Cruz
NextUp Counselor
Department: Guardian Scholar Program
phone 510.723.7124
location Building 700, Room 767S - 2nd floor
My Website

Contact Us

Building & room Building 700, Room 767R

Phone 510.723.7123

Email icon fpedroza@chabotcollege.edu

staff Meet Our Team

IN-PERSON FRONT DESK HOURS

  • Mon: 9am - 5pm
  • Tues: 9am - 5pm
  • Wed: 9am - 5pm
  • Thurs: 9am - 5pm
  • Fri: 9am - 5pm

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