Jasmine Francis: Rising Above Adversity to Lead and Inspire at Los Angeles City College

Every now and then, a story emerges from a community college that transcends the walls of classrooms and campuses, reminding us of the transformative power of education. Jasmine Francis, a student at Los Angeles City College (LACC), embodies this truth. Her journey is one of resilience, courage, and a deep commitment to building a better future—for herself and for those who will follow in her footsteps.

In 2022, Jasmine arrived in California. She was struggling with homelessness and lived in a shelter for eight months. She discovered the chance to pursue a free education at LACC through programs like First Year Experience (FYE), Second Year Experience (SYE), and support systems such as EOPS, PUENTE, BITMI, and UMOJA.

“LACC gave me not just an education, but a lifeline,” Jasmine reflects. These programs, along with her determination to seek every resource available at LACC, gave her the foundation to succeed. Overcoming her fear of returning to school after a five-year gap, Jasmine credits LACC's tutors, counselors, and staff for providing the encouragement she needed to start again.

Now thriving, Jasmine is majoring in Business, Communications, and Finance/Banking, with plans to transfer to a four-year university to study Entrepreneurship and Communications. Her ultimate goal is to inspire others to believe that with dedication, even life’s hardest setbacks can be overcome. She envisions a career as a business consultant and public relations specialist, using her skills to empower communities and help others realize their potential.

Jasmine has made her mark on campus as a passionate leader. As the Associated Student Government (ASG) president, she has focused on initiatives that create a sense of belonging and improve the student experience. From hosting Town Hall meetings and engaging events to advocating for expanded mental health resources and better campus facilities, Jasmine has worked tirelessly to uplift her peers. Her leadership extends beyond her formal role—she’s a connector, a mentor, and a voice for equity and inclusion.

The diversity and support at LACC have been instrumental in her journey. “I love how diverse the student body is on campus,” Jasmine shares. “The supportive professors and staff create a strong sense of belonging.” She believes LACC is a place where students can discover their passions, build career skills, and prepare to transfer to prestigious universities—all in an affordable and accessible environment.

From her early struggles to her achievements as a leader and advocate, Jasmine is proof that perseverance can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Her journey reminds us that education is not just about earning a degree—it’s about building a life of purpose, connection, and impact.

As Jasmine prepares to take her next steps, her legacy at LACC will continue to inspire. She leaves behind a campus enriched by her vision and leadership, and a community of students who know that they, too, can rise above adversity to achieve their dreams.