Where Are They Now? Flo Lopez

Where Are They Now?  

SMAS Graduates Share Their Stories

Flo Lopez at her job at Starbucks
In her green apron with a turquoise mask
"Flo Lopez - SMAS Alum Gives Back"

Meet Flo Lopez

In 2016, Flo Lopez obtained her GED.  She graduated and received a scholarship.  She attended college at the College of San Mateo, is currently on a break from college work, and will return to college next year. She works as a supervisor at Starbucks and is a cheerleader for students like herself.

What's Her Story?

Flo was born in El Salvador and came here with her brother when she was just six years old.  There were many challenges and she learned a lot through them.  When she was sixteen, she hit yet more challenges and made the choice to leave high school and get a job. 

Through everything, Flo knew she wanted a future for herself. And through everything, her mom was her number one cheerleader. So at the age of twenty one, she started her studies at San Mateo Adult School.  Obstacles continued to show up in her path.  It wasn’t easy!  But she was committed to move forward - and her mom cheered her on.

Flo learned about Juanita Wasko, who graduated from SMAS at the age of seventy eight. Wow!  That inspired her.  So at the age of twenty three, Flo made a serious commitment:  Just like Juanita, she would pursue her goals and get her GED!  

Success Through Difficulty

Flo studied under hard conditions - usually hitting the books late at night after working all day.  Teacher Ellen Haworth encouraged her and gave her many tips which helped to sustain her.  She got up the courage to take the test - but missed passing by just five points.  But!  She told herself - get back on the horse and keep going till you finish!  

The following year the score system changed and that was the boost she needed.  She pushed hard and passed!

“I could not believe i had accomplished the biggest challenge that i had - that literally boosted my confidence - it made me really realize - that having an education is really important - not to just have more opportunities but to have more confidence.”  

Life Today - Giving Back

Today she is using her skills at Starbucks as a supervisor.  Math is so important, she notes. She uses it in her job every day.  

In her speech at graduation, she talked about giving back, and Flo does just that. She has visited Ellen’s classes to share advice and encouragement.

“I always encourage others to keep going - because if you set your mind to it - anything can be accomplished.  Everythings a struggle but that’s just life - you just have to put your best foot forward.  If you set your mind to it, that’s all you need - with a little push from other people. You got to have patience with yourself.  Nowadays you have everything in the blink of an eye - but can you really get your education in the blink of an eye?  No. You just have to go through it.  I encourage my family and coworkers to focus on education. At first I thought you don’t need math, reading, and writing but now I love to read and journal.  With God’s grace, I have done a lot."

You sure have, Flo!  And you are doing more by sharing your story now.  Thank you for sharing a bit about where you have been and where you are going.  And don’t forget to stay in touch!  

Are you an alum who would like to share your story? Contact us, please! Your story can inspire others to move forward on their goals and dreams!