Payton's Story

For students who have spent time in the foster care system, college can feel overwhelming and isolating. Fostering Success and Significance (FSS) exists to help bridge that gap—offering mentorship, community, and practical guidance to students who are determined to build a different future. Payton’s story is a powerful example of how that support can change a life.

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Payton attended Sacramento State University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. Her journey to graduation was anything but simple. “I spent 10 years in the child welfare system,” she shares. “I attended 20 schools by the time I graduated college, including eight different eighth grades.” While her time in care was challenging, she reflects that it helped shape the person she is today.

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Transitioning to college brought new lessons. “I did not realize when I transferred to college how demanding the caseload of assignments was going to be,” Payton explains. At the time, she was working two jobs while attending school. “I quickly learned that I could not be the best student while working 60-plus hours a week.”

Payton learned about FSS through a friend who was one of the program’s original scholars. One of the most meaningful parts of her experience has been her mentor, Nicole. “She is truly a gem and has been on this journey with me for the last three years,” Payton says. “Having a mentor like Nicole in my corner has been a game changer.”

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Through FSS workshops, Payton gained skills she didn’t realize she was missing. “I did not understand the importance of internships prior to being in the program,” she says. “The best life skills I’ve learned through FSS are the power of showing up and networking with people. You never know who’s going to be your future boss.”

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Today, Payton is giving back in a powerful way. After graduating this past May, she now serves as Student Success Coach for FSS and co-teaches the FSS workshop on finances. In addition, she is a homeschooling mom and a business owner—running two businesses while continuing to pour into her community.

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Her advice to other students is simple and hard-earned:

“Find your community and lean in. Search high and low for resources, because they’re out there.”

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Payton’s journey reflects what’s possible when determination meets support—and why FSS continues to matter so deeply in the lives of students like her.