Our Journey:
From Uncertainty to Empowerment 

Three friends—Tammy, Knight, and Deandrah—graduated from college as members of the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) in New Jersey with high hopes, but we quickly realized something was missing. Despite our college achievements, we felt unprepared for the real world: navigating careers, managing finances, and understanding how to build a future beyond our degrees.

We weren’t alone. Many of our peers, especially first-generation college graduates like ourselves, faced the same uncertainty. We realized that while college had taught us valuable lessons, it hadn’t prepared us for the practical challenges of life after graduation.

That’s when we decided to do something about it.

Determined to fill the gap, we founded Real Life Ready—a place where first-generation college graduates could receive the mentorship, resources, and support they needed to feel confident and ready for life after college. What started as a shared vision among three friends quickly became a movement, empowering countless graduates to thrive in their careers and beyond.

Who we are

Our mission is to create a support program to offer opportunities and resources for young first generation graduates from any 2 or 4 year institution, including vocational and technical programs, and are between the ages 18 - 24 in Northern New Jersey.

We envision a future environment where every first-generation graduate, from college or trade school, has fair access to opportunities that enable them to thrive in real life.

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Meet the Founders

  • Smiling woman in a black blazer standing against a brick wall.

    Tammy Hsu

    FOUNDER

  • Smiling man in a suit with a striped tie.

    Knight Ambubuyog

    FOUNDER

  • Black and white photo of a glass window with the words "COMING SOON" in bold white lettering. The window reflects a street scene with buildings and vehicles.

    Deandrah Cameron

    FOUNDER

Join Our Team!

Be the change you wish to see. Join our board and help empower the next generation of leaders. Your experience and passion can make a lasting impact on the future of first-generation graduates.

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Person typing on a laptop at a wooden desk
Stack of books on a windowsill with a potted plant nearby and a white curtain partially visible.