Even though his story that sounds like it is a marketing pitch for the College of Alameda, Kadeef Salaam is grateful to have had an opportunity to study there.  Welcoming, diverse, and quaint are some of the attributes Kadeef uses to characterize College of Alameda. When asked how he would describe his experience at College of Alameda, he said that it’s better than he expected and he would recommend it to others. According to Kadeef, it was the small class sizes and close relationships with teachers that made his first year of college a great experience. “I have received an exceptional education,” said Kadeef. “My experience and education at College of Alameda has been top-tier.”   

When Kadeef graduated from Encinal High School in 2016, he wasn’t sure how he would be able to pursue his dream of becoming a politician. That’s when a friend told him about the Alameda Promise Scholarship. The College of Alameda (COA) Promise Program and Scholarship provides students with a year of college without fees, as well as intensive academic support, college transfer assistance, a $250 book stipend, and a laptop for students who are enrolled full time. 

Established in 2016, the College of Alameda (COA) Promise Scholarship Program provides students with a year of college without fees, as well as intensive academic support, college transfer assistance, a $250 book stipend, and a laptop.

A political science major, Kadeef wants to hold a political office so he can be in position to “help those living in poverty and who are less fortunate.” Being one of the first Alameda Promise students, Kadeef is one step closer to realizing his dream of becoming a public servant.