Jorge Chairez was born in Guadalupe, Zacatecas, Mexico, but has known San Jose, CA, as his home since he was 4 years old. Determined to become the first member of his family to graduate from college, Jorge grew up balancing rigorous academics while maintaining a deep sense of responsibility to his family and community. Jorge proudly received his bachelors of science in Civil Engineering from the University of California, Irvine in 2024.
During his time at UC Irvine, Jorge acquired invaluable technical and communication skills. As a member of the College Corps fellowship, he volunteered at Orange County Coast Keeper, a local non-profit focusing on environmental activism. Here, he was able to translate all of the program's educational presentations to reach all of their Spanish-speaking Latino students. This opportunity inspired Jorge to use his problem-solving and love for education to actively help people.
Due to his immigration status, Jorge was barred from many professional opportunities. This hasn't stopped him, though. Since graduating, Jorge has been working as a plumber's apprentice to support himself and his family. He hopes DreamSF will help him improve his ability to better communicate his ideas as well as help him become more connected with the immigrant community.
For the DreamSF Fellowship, Jorge is placed at Jubilee Immigration Advocates, an immigration legal service non-profit. There, Jorge will be in charge of client communications and will assist attorneys on cases. Jorge is confident he will improve his communication skills and foster a deeper connection with the people he will be helping.
In Jorge’s free time, he likes going to the movies, exploring new places, biking, and going to the gym. Most importantly, he loves meeting new people and making connections.
