Lupi Quinteros-Grady
Latin American Youth Center
Riverdale, MD USA
"There is an army of us out there that believe in giving help to our community, that believe in serving."
Career Roadmap
Lupi's work combines: Non-Profit Organizations, Education, and Helping People
See more careers and stories that connect to your interests.
Take Roadmap Quiz
Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Advice for getting started
A degree in social services can be very helpful, especially if you pair it with a minor in finance or business. I also recommend connecting with mentors who work in the field. Take the time to shadow them and learn about the role of a board, as well as the policy and advocacy components involved.
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
English
Goucher College
Graduate Degree
Curriculum Instruction
George Washington University
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be a President & CEO:
Bachelor's Degree: Social Services
Learn more about different paths to this career
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life has been direct
1.
I came to the U.S. from El Salvador at 14, navigating the school system as a first-generation student.
2.
I joined the Latin American Youth Center (LAYC) at 14, participating in their Summer Youth Employment Program.
3.
As a college junior, I returned to LAYC for an internship and later ran the same program I once participated in.
4.
I developed a passion for social justice and advocacy, especially in areas of youth development and immigrant support.
5.
I served on the Prince George’s County Board of Education for four years, representing the Latino community.
6.
I earned a master’s degree in curriculum instruction, bilingual studies, and special education to improve youth education.
7.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I led LAYC’s efforts to provide resources, mental health support, and educational services.
8.
Now, as CEO of LAYC, I focus on empowering young people, creating safe spaces, and advocating for social change.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Teachers:
You should go to a two-year college. You won't get accepted to a four-year.
How I responded:
When I was a senior in high school, I was told that I should look at two-year colleges. Two-years aren't bad but it was insinuating that I wouldn't be accepted to a four-year school. I was a first-generation college student balancing good grades, extracurriculars, and figuring out the school system, so to be told that was very discouraging. I had one teacher who advocated for me and it made all the difference.