Meet Dr. Kevin Palencia, Our First Doctor

Kevin joined the School of Hope in 4th grade. On October 16, he graduated as a Medical Doctor from the Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala, the first doctor to graduate through our Future Pathways scholarship program.

Dr. Kevin Palencia holds up his medical oath at his graduation ceremony, standing with faculty in academic robes

“Helping others without expecting anything in return is beautiful,” Kevin says. “In Guatemala, it is very difficult for children and young people to study because of economic challenges. Finishing high school is already an achievement, and completing university is almost impossible.”

Kevin did it, with emotional, academic and financial support from his Future Pathways scholarship all the way through. In his words: “They don’t leave you on your own.”

Now he’s dreaming even bigger. Kevin hopes to specialize in cardiology and care for patients at Guatemala’s National Cardiology Unit.

Congratulations, Dr. Kevin. We couldn’t be prouder of you.

Help the next Kevin reach graduation day: give the joy of achievement this Christmas.

Next
Next

Beyond The School of Hope: Why Continuing Education Can Be Difficult