2000–2004: Laying the Foundation
Year Up United is founded in Boston, MA in 2000. In 2001, the program enrolled the first cohort of 22 young adults. By 2004, Year Up United served over 250 participants, demonstrating the potential and success of skills-first talent practices.
As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we’re honoring those foundational years by sharing the stories of some of the first alumni who joined our program. Their courage, determination, and success became the blueprint for the 50,000+ students served since.
Meet Kai - A Graduate From Our First Class
Boston - Chinese Immersion Teacher
Kai Tan immigrated to the United States in 1999, determined to build a better future. While earning her GED at Boston Adult Academic High School in the evenings, she worked as a part-time cashier at Stop & Shop, unsure of what her next steps would be. When she joined the first class of Year Up United in 2001, she found more than just technical training; she found a supportive community that helped her navigate the challenges of learning a new language and adapting to a new culture. Through Year Up United, Kai gained essential computer skills, built strong relationships with mentors and classmates, and developed the confidence to advance her education. She became Year Up United’s first graduate to earn an associate’s degree, then continued her academic journey by obtaining a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Now, she is pursuing a doctorate.
Today, Kai is a first- and second-grade Chinese immersion classroom teacher where she continues to learn, grow, and give back. A mother of two boys, she balances a full-time career in education while pursuing her doctoral degree, embracing every challenge as an opportunity for growth. Reflecting on her journey, she credits Year Up United for shaping her path and providing the foundation for her success. As she looks ahead, she remains committed to lifelong learning and believes that with a positive attitude and perseverance, anything is possible.
Meet Adam - A Graduate From Our First Class
Boston - Digital Production Specialist, Tufts University
Adam Wladyszewski grew up in Dorchester, MA, and was finishing his GED when he first learned about Year Up United enrolling the first class of young adults. Unsure of his next steps, he was drawn to the program after a presentation at his school. With a natural interest in computers and Microsoft Office applications, Year Up United seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore a career in technology. Encouraged by his parents and guidance counselor, he applied and took a leap toward his future. During the program, he gained valuable technical skills in web programming, but the most impactful lessons were the soft skills, such as giving and receiving constructive feedback, teamwork, and time management, that prepared him for long-term success.
Adam's career took off at the company where he completed his internship, where he spent nearly 17 years growing from an intern to a full-time front end web developer. His dedication and work ethic led to an unexpected opportunity. When he planned to relocate in 2007, he was offered a remote position, a rare option at the time. That experience set the stage for his current role as a Digital Production Specialist at a leading university. Reflecting on his journey, Adam considers Year Up United the best professional decision of his life, crediting the program for opening doors he never thought possible and setting the foundation for a fulfilling career.
Meet Paulo - A 2003 Graduate
Boston - Register of Deeds - Duke County
Before discovering Year Up United, Paulo DeOliveira was searching for a way to build a meaningful career. He saw the program as a chance to develop the professional skills and confidence needed to launch his journey. Through Year Up United, he secured an internship at Bain Capital, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in business and technology. Inspired to continue his growth, Paulo pursued a degree in Information Systems at PUC Minas in Brazil, further strengthening his expertise in the field.
In 2016, Paulo made history as the first Brazilian-American elected to office on Martha’s Vineyard, serving as the Register of Deeds for Dukes County. In this role, he has led efforts to modernize systems, making the Registry more accessible and efficient for the public. His commitment to service extends beyond his profession—he serves on multiple boards and committees, including the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital Board of Trustees, and volunteers as a firefighter with the Edgartown Fire Department. Paulo credits Year Up United with shaping his path, providing him with the tools and confidence to serve his community and create a lasting impact.