Alvin Abraham
ExxonMobil Foundation
Austin, TX USA
"You are who you are and you have a story. Let that be central to the decisions you make and the things that you do."
Career Roadmap
Alvin's work combines: Non-Profit Organizations, Education, and Accomplishing Goals
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
Political Science
Texas A&M University
Graduate Degree
Educational Administration
University of Houston
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life has been direct
1.
Growing up with immigrant parents, I learned early on that education was my path forward and felt driven to honor their sacrifices.
2.
I attended strong public schools, not realizing then how much access to great teachers would shape my future.
3.
I entered college on the pre-med track, but after shadowing a surgeon and seeing the demanding lifestyle, I questioned if that future was the right path for me.
4.
Pushing against expectations, I decided to pivot to political science and started thinking about law school.
5.
The September 11 attacks shifted my trajectory—I decided to defer school and join Teach for America.
6.
Teaching in the classroom was fulfilling and challenging, and it revealed my passion for education and equity in underserved communities.
7.
I continued to build my career in education, progressing from teacher to principal to nonprofit leader, growing my impact at each step.
8.
Now at the ExxonMobil Foundation, I help expand access to education for millions worldwide.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Parents:
You should become a doctor.
How I responded:
I initially entered college on the pre-med track, thinking I'd become a doctor, which was encouraged by my family. I felt a responsibility to honor my parents' sacrifice as immigrants. However, after shadowing a surgeon, I realized that it didn't truly align with what I wanted my work life to look like. Going against family and cultural expectations to pivot to political science was difficult but it's what was right for me. I've ultimately built a career that's both fulfilling and authentic.
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
Coming out wasn't easy for myself or my family. It took me a long time to do it and it took some years for my family to come around. But it was the best decision I ever made.