Esmeralda Acosta was born and raised in La Mission of San Francisco. Growing up in a very diverse neighborhood, she was able to see the disparities in education. Seeing kids struggle the way she did, sparked the interest of working with students. Today, she always strives to help those who can’t help themselves.

Esmeralda attended California State University and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Psychology. Before she started working for Mission Graduates, she was a participant in our College Connect program that supported her and gave her the resources she needed to attend college. Ever since then, she has been a part of this growing community of people who want to make a difference and shape young minds. After two years of constant work and dedication as an after school teacher, she has taken on the role of Assistant Director of Bryant Beacon Extended Day Program.