Since 2006 as a volunteer, I have been helping first generation students (children of immigrants) write essays for college and scholarship applications. One of my best success stories is Brenda, who won $269,445 in scholarships in 2016.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, Dennise and I have been meeting in her family home on Saturday mornings with one of her parents chaperoning. Everyone wears a mask. With schools and restaurants closed, there is no other place we can meet. The school district does not allow students to meet in volunteers' homes.

So far, Dennise has applied to four universities and two scholarships. She was accepted by three universities. Fingers crossed for the prestigious, extremely competitive University of Washington that mails out acceptance letters in May.

Today I got a message from Dennise:

I have terrible news. My dad felt sick Wednesday and got a COVID-19 test. It came back positive. We think he might have gotten infected at work. My mom and I have no idea if we’re infected because the clinic won’t let us be tested since we don’t show any symptoms. Because of this, I don’t think I can meet with you in person at my house. I have to be quarantined for at least 10 days and my house is not a safe space for you.

I replied that Dennise and her mother can get tested at the local community health center with many Spanish-speaking staff:

"Dress warmly and bring your phone. They have you wait inside your car. They have parking stalls reserved for tests. Posted in each numbered stall is a sign with the number to call to say you need a test. Everyone is very kind. The wait is not long. A nurse will come outside to you, wearing a robe, mask, face shield, gloves, etc."

"If you can't find the right parking area, just pull in by an entrance. Someone will be there to direct you."

Meanwhile, I can help Dennise apply for scholarships using email and phone.