Mother and Daughter Both Benefit from Futures Program

By Suzanne Reyes



Name: Stephanie Ann Curtis Martinez
Current occupation: Supervisor Assistant at Godfrey Berry School.
Education background: Hilltop High School, 2001. Medical Assistant, 2003; Associate in Science, 2005; and Bachelor in Science, 2008, Pima Medical School. Business Certificate, UC San Diego Extension, 2020

Stephanie Ann Curtis Martinez and her daughter, Nayeli Martinez, 18, enrolled in Manage Your Future together. Nayeli Martinez has since graduated from Mar Vista High School in Imperial Beach. Parents can enroll in select Futures programs with their child because studies show that students respond well to seeing their parents engage in lifelong learning. It also allows family members to bond over education as they explore new concepts together. 

Stephanie and her daughter are just one of many examples of families who took part in the program. We asked Stephanie to share her experience and offer tips to anyone interested in continuing their education. 

Tell us about your current job.
I supervise 550 students during their lunch hour to ensure their safety while in the cafeteria and playground. 

What was your initial career plan before college?
Before I entered college, I wanted to be in the medical field. I wanted to make a difference in healthcare.

What made you pursue the Manage Your Future program from UC San Diego Extension?
I pursued the course because I wanted to start my own business to help those in need. I was able to take it with my daughter (who was still a senior in high school) and work with her. She has a vision of starting a business working with the homeless. I believe that the business course helped her see the different steps and hard work needed to get a plan or idea off the ground.

What did you like about the program at UC San Diego Extension?
I really like the fact that UC San Diego Extension teamed up with the YMCA in the South Bay to provide this course to those who are unable to travel to campus. I also like the fact that the teacher, Juan Gutierrez, was always available to answer questions. The fact that he would stay after class to give advice to each student was amazing. These days with classes being so large many students don’t feel that they can speak with the teacher. Mr. Gutierrez was always an email away.

How will this change your future?
The business course that I took will not only help me in starting a new business, but it will help in the current job that I am in. The course has provided me with critical thinking skills that I did not have before taking this course.

What are your thoughts on lifelong learning?
At the age of 37 and a mother of three children, I have always taught my children that it is never too late to continue your education or to learn something new. All three of my children are AVID students and are always willing to learn. They are always jumping feet first into new adventures. Doing this, I feel that I am setting an example for my children and other children to succeed in life.

Will you take other classes with UC San Diego Extension?
This was the first course that I attended at UC San Diego Extension. I would love to take another course. It would be in business again. I really enjoyed the class and the material they provide.  

Any advice for others looking to pursue this certificate about the benefits or considerations?
Never wonder what if, just do it. You may fail and you may not, but you will never know if you don’t try. Keep an open mind and an open heart. 

This blog was edited for length and clarity. 

Learn more about the Manage Your Future Program with courses such as Organizational Behavior, Elements of Marketing, and Business Decision Making. Now offered online/remotely.