“Surround yourself with the right people!” Vigilance and upward social mobility of Latinx in San Diego

Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork on the upward social mobility of Latinx individuals in San Diego, this article explores how the adage “surround yourself with the right people” fosters vigilance and directs the attention of individuals aspiring to social ascent. This phrase acts as a call to develop social networks and engage in mentorship relationships to acquire skills deemed essential for success by experienced leaders. The paper finds that mentors play a crucial role in guiding aspirants toward cultivating a positive mindset, developing self-confidence, and building a supportive network. In doing so, mentors emphasize specific cultural traits described as Latinx characteristics—traits considered beneficial for success— and promote a collective commitment to empowering others. By highlighting the significance of skill development and social networks, this study shifts the focus from structural barriers to social mobility toward individual agency and community support. However, this perspective also exposes tensions and ambivalences, as aspirants must navigate class differences and balance personal ambitions with community expectations, often resulting in stress and conflicts of belonging.