Date of Graduation

Spring 5-16-2025

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Global Studies

College/School

College of Arts and Sciences

Department/Program

Global Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Shabnam Koirala-Azad

Second Advisor

Dr. Dana Zartner

Abstract

This study analyzes the experiences of low-income youth in terms of their access to educational opportunities in connection to their social mobility, the study focuses on two highly prosperous cities: San Francisco and Tokyo specifically dwelling into some affected population groups and overall neighborhoods where low-income populations are clustered in. The study delves into youth poverty as a complex phenomenon facing communities and its direct implications for the lives of youth in the context of educational experiences and its connection to socio-economic outcomes. By focusing on two organizations addressing this issue in each of the contexts, the study highlights interventions, programs and approaches that seek to break cycles of generation poverty and, by engaging local communities, offer support systems for youth as they endeavor to meet their aspirations.

Results: Both non-profits use community involvement both at a local community level and even at a corporate level. As a result of having deep community roots, both non-profit organizations involve their students’ parents or guardians in their students’ journey from high school and beyond. Lastly, both organizations help their students beyond high school into their professional careers. Involving the local community and helping students in their professional careers provides us with an example of not just the individual abolishment of poverty but a generational abolishment of poverty.

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Available for download on Thursday, December 25, 2025

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