WB Fellowship Alumnus Juan Carlos Arredondo Granted CSU Trustee's Award-- "The fellowship opened many doors"

Juan Carlos Arredondo is now part of the historic and prestigious lineage of CSU Trustee Award recipients. A proud alum of the Willie Brown Fellowship at San Francisco State, Juan Carlos has recently been recognized with the CSU Trustee Award for his efforts to bridge the gap for Latino men in social work. 

Reflecting on his journey, Juan Carlos explains how the Willie Brown Fellowship opened many doors, allowing him to explore a variety of career paths in social work. Along the way, he gained valuable insights, learning what works best for his future career and what will be most applicable in his professional life as a social worker. 

Though applying for the CSU Trustee Award was a demanding process—requiring essays, letters of recommendation, and even a video submission—he is grateful for the opportunity to share his story and inspire others. 

"Don’t be afraid to try new things," Juan Carlos advises other students, encouraging them to explore opportunities even if they feel uncertain. "People often worry that where they end up might not be the best fit or that they won’t know what they’re doing, but it’s a chance to explore. Financial support like the Willie Brown Fellowship, which is $3,000, or this trustee award, helps you rest a little more." 

With his success, Juan Carlos hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams, take risks, and embrace the opportunities that come their way.