Scholarship Spotlight: Thuc Nguyen’s Journey to Advocacy and Education
March 27th, 2025
At Skyline College, Shermagne Marie Gutierrez is proving that determination and the right support can turn adversity into opportunity. But her journey has been far from easy.
A mother of twins, Shermagne Marie Gutierrez returned to Skyline College to attend its Barbering and Esthetics program after overcoming a serious injury that forced her to rethink her career. With a background in film and a love for beauty and wellness, she found a new passion in medical esthetics, where she hopes to work in cosmetic plastic surgery as a registered nurse, helping others look and feel their best.
When Shermagne received a scholarship from the San Mateo County Community Colleges Foundation, it made all the difference in her ability to stay in school and pursue her goals. Like many students balancing school, work, and parenting, Shermagne often found herself stretched thin. “There’s no way I would have made it without the financial support.” It relieved so much stress—covering bills, rent, and the nearly $2,000 esthetics kit required for her program.
"As a single mom, I was struggling, and the Grove Scholarship gave me the chance to focus on my education. To the donors who made this possible—thank you,” she says. “Your support has helped me get one step closer to my dream career. More than that, it has shown me that there are people who believe in my potential and want to see me succeed.”
Perseverance in the Face of Adversity
Shermagne’s college experience has been a journey of growth and resilience. Balancing her studies with raising twins hasn’t been easy, but she’s proud of what she has accomplished. One of her proudest moments was earning a 3.8 GPA—an achievement she once thought impossible.
“Doing homework with two kids after school is tough, but when I saw that GPA, I knew I could do anything,” she says. “It reminded me of my strength.”
Her experience in the esthetics program has reinforced her passion for helping others. From seeing dramatic transformations in her clients to mentoring fellow students, she has embraced the power of self-care—not just for herself, but for the people she serves.
Building a Future and Giving Back
Shermagne’s journey doesn’t stop at graduation. She plans to transfer to College of San Mateo’s nursing program and eventually earn her bachelor’s degree as a registered nurse. In five years, she hopes to either own a medical spa or work alongside a partner in the field. She also dreams of directing a documentary to inspire others who have faced similar challenges.
Giving back is at the core of her aspirations. She has already volunteered at her children’s daycare and has been connected with SparkPoint, a program that helps students access financial and career resources. One day, she hopes to support other women facing hardships, just as she was supported when she needed it most.
Scholarship Support Makes Dreams Possible
Shermagne’s story is a testament to the power of education—and the impact that scholarships have in transforming lives. Without financial support, students like her might have to put their dreams on hold, or worse, abandon them altogether. But because of donors like you, she is on track to graduate, provide for her family, and build a future filled with opportunity.
“There are so many students out there who just need a chance,” she says. “Scholarships change lives. They changed mine.”