When KIPP Academy of Innovation alumnus Joshua Pastelin first started middle school, he didn’t realize how much his KIPP experience would shape his future.
“Looking back, I’m definitely more grateful,” he said. “They drill into you that you’re gonna be the class of 2027. And you're not just going to graduate from high school — you're going to graduate college.”
Now a Pasadena City College student studying sociology and Chicano studies, Joshua plans to transfer to UC Santa Barbara to continue his education.
Before joining Snap Inc., Joshua completed a marketing internship with USC’s Neighborhood Academic Initiative, made possible through CareerSpring, a KIPP Forward partner connecting students to career-building opportunities.
During the internship, he was tasked with analyzing marketing materials and devising strategies to enhance communication and outreach. “It really taught me how to problem-solve and take initiative,” Joshua said.
He credits that experience as a launch pad for his summer with Snap Inc., where he brought his creativity and curiosity to one of the world’s leading tech companies as a 2025 Snap Inc. Academies Storytelling Scholar.
“Over the past several weeks, I’ve strengthened my creative storytelling voice, refined my strategic mindset, and grown as a collaborator within diverse, cross-functional teams,” he shared. “I learned firsthand how a global brand like Snap approaches creativity and innovation.”
Through the Snap Academies Storytelling Cohort, Joshua connected with inspiring leaders, including Evan Spiegel (Snap Inc. CEO) and Grace Kao (Snap Inc. CMO). “Their perspectives on leadership truly embodied Snap’s values of being kind, smart, and creative,” he said. “It solidified my passion for storytelling and strategy.”
Joshua credits KIPP Forward for helping him build the confidence and connections that opened these doors. “Even after middle school, KIPP continued to show up,” he said. “My KIPP Forward counselors shared resources, connected me to internships, and kept checking in. Those relationships are why I’m here today.”
His advice for other students? “Never be afraid to advocate for yourself,” Joshua said. “Most of the opportunities I’ve gotten have come from just asking — reaching out to mentors or saying yes to something new. You never know what can happen if you just ask.”
As he looks ahead, Joshua hopes to continue building a career that combines innovation, community, and impact — values he first nurtured during his time at KIPP.