Transfer Student Success Stories

FALL 2020

VANIA BESSOS

Certificate/ Degree: AS in Biology

Transfer College & Major: UC San Diego: Cell and Molecular Biology 

What is your GCC story?
When I came to this school I joined several clubs which helped me be myself and explore several of my passions. Although some semesters were difficult, balancing schoolwork with social life is what gave me a good experience overall. 

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
GCC helped me get to where I want to be by providing great tutoring services from the Math Discovery Center and the Learning Center. Office Hours also played a role in my success in classes. 

How did GCC influence your life and career?
GCC gave me a lot of opportunities outside of the classroom. Through the multicultural center I was able to volunteer at various places such as Dignity Health Hospital and Tree People. 

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Don't listen to the haters, only you can know how much potential you have and what you're capable of.

 SEVANA HENRY

 Certificate/ Degree: AA-T Communications

 Transfer College & Major: CSUN

 What is your GCC story?
 I first started at GCC back in fall 2014 with an intent to major in Music. At   the same time, I decided to be a part-time student considering I couldn’t   handle the academic stress level of taking multiple classes in one semester. I also seized many opportunities GCC had to offer in the years gone by, like performing in several theater productions and recitals, joining different clubs and making numerous friendships, and competing in the first ever GCC Speech Competition! I can’t wait to take on more opportunities at CSUN!

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
Although I excelled in most of the required music classes (especially College Choir), I realized I wasn’t cut out for the Music major, because I struggled with Musicianship and Harmony. However, when I took Speech 101 with Dr. Jeff Smith as a General Ed class, I realized my full potential from public speaking. Dr. Smith seemed impressed by my lack of shyness of speaking in front of a large group. Since I did slightly better in classes related to Mass Communications and public speaking, my advisor told me that I might want to reconsider my major; so I took her advice, and switched majors. I thought Communications would be a harder major, but then realized it was less stressful for me. I also found the transfer application easier with fewer required classes for the Comms major.

How did GCC influence your life and career?
I basically grew up on the GCC campus, because my mom was a faculty member for 30 years. I even took her English 102 and Humanities 115 classes, and did well in both. I found Humanities 115 most enjoyable, because this class focused on Mythology and it’s influence on pop culture. There were many bumps in the road, but I feel like if I didn’t switch majors, I wouldn’t have known that a degree in Communications was my calling. I hope to pursue a career in performing arts after I finish at Northridge

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
“In order to succeed, you must fail...so you know what not to do next time.” -Anonymous

MARGUSH STEPANYAN

Certificate/ Degree: AS in Mathematics and As in Physics

Transfer College & Major: UCLA

What is your GCC story?
I came to study in GCC with a little hope that I could study. At the time I was a busy mom with three small children to take care about.I enjoyed the learning journey in GCC and tried my best to have a chance to be in the school of my dreams, UCLA.

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
GCC was incredibly helpful. Every teacher and every staff member did encouraged and helped me in a way or so. The environment was warm, peaceful and supportive.

How did GCC influence your life and career?
GCC is the first step to my career. It gave me the confidence and belief that I am able to set goals ]\and achieve them.

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Trust your heart, trust your abilities but work hard!

 NATALIE ZADIKIAN

 Certificate/Degree: AA-T in Psychology, AA-T in Sociology

 Transfer College & Major: UCLA, Psychology

 What is your GCC story?
I’ve attended GCC for 2 years. I didn’t get into my top colleges as a freshman, so I attended GCC to further strengthen my skills and for the opportunity of getting into my dream university, UCLA. I’ve always known I wanted to study psychology, so I immediately met with counselors and planned out my 2 years at GCC. Over the course of my time here, I’ve had incredible experiences in the Scholars Program, the STAR Program, and as an SI leader for philosophy. Taking advantage of these programs was the best decision I’ve ever made.

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
The Scholars Program was a huge motivator and reason for my success. The Honors courses provided me with academic rigor and prepared me for upper division courses. Also, with my newfound sense of community, the engaging volunteer experiences, and my new lifelong friends, Scholars has inspired me to always be the best version of myself.

How did GCC influence your life and career?
Going to GCC has made me realize the importance of community college. I’ve not only grown my abilities as a dedicated student, but as an active member of my community. I’ve also had the opportunity to take really interesting courses outside of my major which have made me a more well-rounded student. GCC has inspired me to push myself and pursue what I love.

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Shout-out to the Scholars Program for giving me the best GCC community! Also a huge shout-out to Professor Hastings and Professor Kamei, who have expanded my passions in political science and sociology. Thank you for being you. And for any students beginning or continuing their GCC journey, remember that your success depends on you. See your counselor regularly, take initiative, step out of your comfort zone, and work harder than you ever have before. Your time at GCC will fly by before you know it, so make sure you make it memorable. It will all pay off, I promise. :)

MARIA CAMPO

 Certificate/Degree: B.M. In classical Vocal Arts Performance

Transfer College & Major: USC, Classical Vocal Arts Performance

What is your GCC story?
My first year of college I went to the University of Arizona. This experience for me did not end up to be successful I felt that the environment wasn’t good for me and I missed my home state of California. I had steered away from singing opera which is what I had studied in high school and I felt very lost at the time. I then decided to do what was best for me and to reach for higher goals. I went to Glendale community college for two years now and it was the best choice that I could’ve ever made. I renewed my love for music in the music department and worked extremely hard to reach for higher goals that I knew I could achieve. Now I will be attending the University of Southern California (USC)in the Thornton school of music.

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
The incredible teachers in the Glendale community college music department helped me realize my love for music. They inspired me to continue on being a better version of myself every single day. I can say without a doubt that I would not be the person I am today without the guidance from Glendale community college.

How did GCC influence your life and career?
Because of Glendale community college I was truly able to step back and realize what was important to me. What is truly important to me is the hard work and dedication that it takes to be a better version of yourself every day. Because of Glendale community college now I am able to continue my music career and grow as a artist in LA for my whole life.  Because of Glendale community college I was truly able to step back and realize what was important to me. What is truly important to me is the hard work and dedication that it takes to be a better version of yourself every day. Because of Glendale community college now I am able to continue my music career and grow as a artist in LA for my whole life. I will have a degree now from the University of Southern California and that is going to benefit me so much in my life.

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
My words of wisdom for anybody who is attending Glendale community college or any community college in general is to take everything you can from these years that you’re attending and eat it up. These years were building blocks to achieve more at a university and work as hard as you can to continue on your next step. There are so many resources at GCC that you can use so take advantage of them. In addition never take any day for granted and believe in yourself and know that you can do it.

George Tyler Heffley

Certificate/ Degree: AA-T

Transfer College & Major: USC, B.M. Jazz Studies and B.S. Music Industry 

What is your GCC story?
I began going to GCC in the fall of 2017. Prior to that, I received an AA in Guitar Performance and Audio Engineering from Musicians Institute in the winter of 2017. I wanted to go to GCC so that I could start and finish my general education and transfer to a university to continue to study music. While here, I’ve made meaningful friendships with my professors and fellow students and lasting memories that I will always cherish and appreciate. 

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
GCC has helped me to evolve as a student and musician. The classes here demanded from me to give serious effort into my studies and put in quality time and work into how I study, how to communicate with my professors and classmates, how to organize study sessions, complete all of my assignments, and perform excellently with my exams. Musically, I was faced with valuable information and experiences from my teachers and peers that I grew positively from. This all worked to bettered my skills in performance, communication, my practice schedule, knowledge of music history, producing and composition, audio engineering, arranging, and notation. All of these moments are extremely valuable to me and I couldn’t be anymore grateful from what I’ve gained from here. 

How did GCC influence your life and career?
GCC has giving me a broader sense of how the world operates and how I would be able to incorporate my skills into it in a constructive way. Taking these classes gave me the opportunity to be around people with different interests, get a better understanding of where people’s values are, and get more clarity as to how I can better operate with others in society. Being able to know how to communicate and work with others is vital to success and GCC has definitely given that exposure to me and my classmates. My time here has only strengthened my skills as a musician and composer in how my studies have exposed me to different styles of music, the history from where it all came from, performance opportunities that bettered how I play when in front of others, my knowledge of music engineering and mixing, the business aspects of the music industry, and how I interact with my professors and peers. I was also apart of the study abroad program that went to Ireland and England. That trip was life changing and exposed me to these beautiful countries, their cultures and people, music, food, and a better understanding of the world outside of my own. With the Jazz Band, I took two trips to the JEN (Jazz Educators Network) conventions that were in Reno and New Orleans. These trips exposed me to legendary and incredibly talented musicians that gave me a better picture of where I want to be as a musician and composer. All of the experiences, knowledge, and wisdom that I’ve gained at GCC, around the U.S., and around the world have helped me to grow as a student and musician and better define where and how I want to continue my life and career. 

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
I wanted to thank all of the professors who are apart of the music faculty for providing me with performance opportunities and valuable lessons and information that have helped me to grow as a student and as a man. I wanted to specifically thank Professor Delto, Professor Helgeson, Professor Pflueger, Dr. Green, Dr. Sherman, Professor Rios, Professor Pineda, and all of my music classmates for all of the music that we’ve learned, played, and enjoyed. I also wanted to thank all of my professors and fellow classmates outside of my music classes that have helped to broaden my experiences and perspectives to the world around me. I wanted to specifically thank Professor Dulay, Professor Kamei, Professor Doyle, Dr. Queen, Dr. Hastings, Professor Ridgway, and Professor Kronbeck for being valuable teachers and such a positive influence on me in and out of the classroom. As Willie Wonka once said, “We are the music makers and we are the dreamers of dreams.” Dream big, work hard, and make this world your own. 

MIKEL NICOLO RODRIGUEZ

Certificate/ Degree: AA-T: Communication Studies

Transfer College & Major: UCLA,Communication 

What is your GCC story?
I came to GCC to start a new path. From the moment I joined my first Sociology Class and Public Speaking class, I knew that Communications was something to pursue. Throughout my two years, I advocated for the legitimacy of esports, joining Esports Club in my freshman year and creating League of Legends Club in my sophomore year. 

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
Many professors at GCC truly care about their students. From time and time again, I've studied under professors that praised the close vibe of GCC and actively advocated for community by advertising clubs and events.

How did GCC influence your life and career?
GCC has been an amazing influence. My involvement with clubs have stirred me towards the gaming industry and highly improved my communication and networking skills. I loved networking with Student Affairs in hopes of creating an Esports program on campus and I cannot wait to bring back what I learn from UCLA in order to make that dream a reality for my future club members and the next generation.

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
GET INVOLVED AND TAKE FUN CLASSES! Every semester I made sure to take at least one fun class. It definitely helps you enjoy coming to school more! I'd like to thank all my professors for mentoring me on my journey. It was refreshing to have professors that truly cared about your studies and general well-being. Special thanks to Prof. Garagliano for sparking my love for Communication and pushing me to do that Intramural Speech Tournament that one time! Andre and Tzoler from Student Affairs, you have been nothing short of amazing. I'm sorry for bugging you so much with my esports antics! I am truly thankful for the amount of work and support you have given to the cause. To the future of League of Legends Club: keep building and maintaining that community. Keep advocating for the legitimacy of esports at GCC. I'm very proud of what we were able to create in only a year: not only a gaming community, but a family. I cannot wait to see how big our family will get in the future. Fourcasts out! 4444

ANKEEN ARESTAKESYAN

Certificate/ Degree: 

Transfer College & Major: UCSD, Electrical and Computer Engineering 

What is your GCC story?
About a year and a half after moving to the US and graduating highschool, I decided to attend GCC. Despite getting admitted in a few universities, I wanted to stay local as I was still new to the country, and it was much more affordable. I regretted not going to a university at first but it was a matter of weeks before I realized I was on the right path, and this was a station at which I could grow, prepare myself for what's coming next, and bring myself a better opportunity.

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
GCC has always tried its best to offer its students a helping hand and guide them to their goal. In my case, professors were always there to answer questions, and counselors helped set my educational plan, and advised me about opportunities that I could benefit from. But most importantly, at GCC I met people who I not only consider friends, but also family, and I'm sure if there is one thing I'll remember forever it's meeting them. I learned a lot from them and they helped me become a better person.

How did GCC influence your life and career?
With all the experiences that I lived at GCC, I learned to always aim for the best. GCC influenced me to keep seeking knowledge, to catch every opportunity I get, and make connections wherever I am. 

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Everything works out when the time is right for it, till then keep working hard and trying your best :)

SUNE AGHAKIAN

Certificate/ Degree: AS-T Business Administration

Transfer College & Major: UC Berkeley, Economics  

What is your GCC story?
I enrolled at Glendale Community College after I graduated from Burbank High School in 2018 and immediately got involved at the college. I decided to join the Associated Students of GCC (ASGCC) and was fortunate enough to be a senator for an entire year. After my first year at GCC, I decided to run for the President & Student Trustee position for the college. This past year as President & Student Trustee, I have had the most amazing experience at Glendale College and have met so many wonderful people who have shaped my life in one way or another. By being as involved as I was at GCC, I truly got a sense of the pride of being a Vaquero. GCC has not only allowed me to explore my major and career path, but has also pushed me out of my comfort zone and surrounded me with the most amazing opportunities. 

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
GCC helped me get to where I want to be by providing me with unique opportunities and resources. Over the last 2 years, I was on campus for nearly 12 hours every day pushing myself in both academics and my leadership roles. I would have not been able to do any of this if it wasn't for the support I got from my counselors, professors and advisors. GCC allowed me to successfully transfer and get into numerous universities I was not able to get into as a high school senior. 

How did GCC influence your life and career?
GCC influenced my life by providing me with the utmost opportunities. I was fortunate to have such a huge leadership role on campus, leading me to meet many people who have helped push me in life. The classes I took at GCC have also highlighted  the passion I have for my major and the professors I have met have given me so much advice for my career. All in all, the professors, counselors, advisors and deans have helped shape my life both as a student and as a person in general. 

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Shout out to ASGCC for becoming my second family! I was honestly given the most amazing executive team and would not have been able to complete my presidency term if it weren't for them. Also shout out to Andre Manukyan from the Student Affairs Office for helping me with the college application process, Kevin Meza & Nahal Ghodousi for being the greatest counselors, Professor Dimitrios Synodinos for being the most amazing professor, and Dr. Viar for being such a wonderful college president. Words of Wisdom: Don't stop until you're proud!

HANS PETROS

Certificate/ Degree: AA-T

Transfer College & Major: UCSD, Sociology  

What is your GCC story?
Once upon a time there was a school that made and still makes dreams come true. That school is called GCC. 

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
GCC was a boost up stage for me to achieve my primary academics, and be able to transfer to my dream school after years being away from school and books. If I could do it, you can do it as well.

How did GCC influence your life and career?
It enlightened my mind and opened my eyes to the world of education and success. I became more confident and cultivated in my life as well as my career.

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Capable is the one who is wise, Happiness from wisdom will arise.

Samantha Skodje

Certificate/ Degree: Double: AA-T psychology, AA social sciences

Transfer College & Major: UCLA, Psychology

What is your GCC story?
I chose to attend GCC and it was the best decision I could have made. As a non traditional student, I felt so supported throughout my time at GCC. I am so proud to be an alumni. I will forever be thankful for the opportunities given to me at GCC by faculty, professors, and students alike. GCC supported my decision and helped me to succeed.

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
GCC gave me many opportunities I would not have had access to anywhere else. Because of the patience of the instructors, I was able to understand subjects I had previously thought impossible. The full experience was centered around the success of the students and this was clear throughout my years. I am greatly appreciative of everyone I met through this school, and I am sad to be leaving!

How did GCC influence your life and career?
GCC gave me the chance to strive for goals I hadn’t realized were reachable. As a non traditional age student the choice to go back to school was not easy, but Glendale made it easy. Thanks to GCC, I am attending a University that I would not have gained acceptance to without success at GCC.

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Join clubs!!! Try your best to engage with the campus community. It is one of a kind. My advice to you is spend as much time on that campus as you can! 

Ankeen Dajadian

Certificate/ Degree: 

Transfer College & Major: UCLA, Biology

What is your GCC story?
I started GCC two years ago and knew from the first time I stepped foot on campus that I wanted to be involved as much as I could. I joined the GCC Scholars Program and was also a part of Alpha Gamma Sigma Honors Society. I loved biology ever since I took my first life science class back in middle school and I knew I wanted to pursue that as my major. It was like second nature to me and I was so interested in it. My counselors helped me plan out my two years at GCC so that I could take all the classes I needed and have time to enjoy being a college student. I eventually became an SI leader for Biology 102, my favorite class ever, and I knew that I wanted to transfer as a Bio major. 

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
Being able to explore my interests beyond biology at GCC helped me narrow down what I really wanted to do as a career choice. GCC gives you the luxury of taking any classes that you want and taking your time too, which is very beneficial. The most important thing to me was that I did not feel rushed and I could take a step back and evaluate what was best for me. Of course, joining the Scholars Program was by far one the best decision I made coming into GCC. I learned to be a better student and a better member for the community. I was lucky enough to serve as a member of the Scholars Program Cabinet and my position taught me important leadership skills. I became a well-rounded person and found a new love for volunteering and giving back.

How did GCC influence your life and career?
At first, not getting into universities out of high school seemed like the end of the world, but coming to GCC made me realize that I would not have made it in a 4-year university without all the skills I developed at GCC. Being at GCC gave me time to develop into a more mature student and become a better student as well. I also found my passion for biology at GCC and learned that I am also really interested in drama after taking a Drama Heritage class with Professor Munsey. I learned a lot of new things about myself and my interests and I am forever grateful for the classes and experiences I have had at GCC.

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Shout-out to Dr. Harnett, our amazing Scholars Program Director and my mentor. Thank you for always believing in me! Shout-out to Dr. Gago and Dr. Kretzmann, my amazing Bio 102 professors that made me fall in love with biology even more and made me realize that it was what I wanted to pursue. Some Words of Wisdom are to explore your interests and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! Don't be afraid to ask for help! Go to your counselors and professors or anyone else that you consider a mentor and have a nice talk about what you are going through and what you plan to do. Lastly, enjoy your time at GCC because it passes by quickly! 

Maryam Mostafavi

Certificate/ Degree: AA

Transfer College & Major: UCLA, Film & Television

What is your GCC story?
Almost 1 year ago, I decided to back to college and finish my transfer credit courses. I had to take more than 50 units to be able to transfer to UC or CSU. I worked very hard this past year. Some days I had to come back home at 11 PM and go to school next day very early in the morning. Fortunately, I was able to pass 54 units with mostly high grades. I am very thankful for the guidance from my professors, and the whole GCC community for helping me realize my dream of becoming a UCLA student.

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
GCC has very good and helpful professors and resources. I would recommend that you reach out to your professors for their guidance as you work towards your transfer.

How did GCC influence your life and career?
GCC gave me a chance to prove myself academically. I was motivated seeing how many students from GCC transfer to great universities.

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Some classes you will love, some won't be as interesting to you. That's OK. In every class I found something interesting that will stay with me. Do the work. Even when it is hard.  And ask for help when you need it. GCC professors really do want us to succeed.

DEZZY ALVARADO 

Certificate/ Degree: Transfer

Transfer College & Major: UCSB, Hydrological Sciences

What is your GCC story?
I spent four great years at GCC. I met so many wonderful people and  shared so many wonderful moments here. If I could go back I would do it all the same I learned so much not only about myself as a student but as a person. I started as a business major and I never thought four years later that I’d be STEM major getting accepted to UCSB. Yet, here I am surprised at myself and amazed.

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
GCC help me the most by giving me community. I think when I really sat there and took advantage of what that meant it had exponential positive repercussions in my career as a student . Creating that home away from home atmosphere made going to school just that much more enticing. I wanted to be there, be present, be the best me. I say that because “there“ became home and at home there’s love, support, and people who believe in you.

How did GCC influence your life and career?
I think across all departments (chemistry literature, music, etc) there’s this mindset of patience ; I was often reminded by professors and mentors that I had my whole life ahead of me, to live in the now, because when I look back I wasn’t gonna remember that extra semester I spent trying to figure out what exactly I wanted to do with my life.

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Shout out to HOOVER, Nane!! The whole MCEC family. Oh God thank you to the Pride Center and my wonderful boss ARAKEL! Whoop whoop!!! VOICES!! the learning center! The transfer center! Paolo I’m so grateful for you THE IAC AND DSPS office y’all have been so good to me and omg the library front desk crew you guys have been my ride or die Scarlet Rich Susan! Thank you guys for supporting me and believing in me <3 Ain’t no body stopping you, but you, baby! Best foot forward!!

MERI MAKHMURYAN 

Certificate/ Degree: Transfer

Transfer College & Major: UCLA, International Development Studies  

What is your GCC story?
I started attending GCC since Fall 2017. During these six semesters, I have learned a lot of valuable information that made me smarter and more knowledgeable. GCC gave me an opportunity to challenge myself, face obstacles, and overcome them. I am very lucky for having the opportunity to study at GCC. I am so grateful to my professors who went above and beyond to help me in any possible way to perform well in the class. I am also very thankful to my counselor Greg Perkins, who was there every time I needed guidance, feedback, and advice. The time spent at GCC was full of fun, knowledge, success, and joy! GCC is a very memorable and important chapter in my life. 

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
If it was not for GCC, I would not be able to get into my dream school-UCLA. The level of difficulty and challenge of each class prepared me better and made me a stronger candidate. Being able to visit my professors during their office hours to consult and improve my understanding of the topic helped me to succeed in class. GCC helped to become more responsible, social, and smarter. It provided me with a great path towards a nice future!

How did GCC influence your life and career?
GCC influenced my life by making me a responsible and educated adult who knows what she wants. It helped me to understand what career suits me better and what educational goals I should have to get to that career. Taking General Education courses was very useful because that helped me to determine what subjects I feel passionate about and want to get advanced education in. 

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Shout out to my favorite professors: Dr. Groper, Professor Jamieson, Professor Perkins, Professor Hastings, Professor Ridgway, Professor Newberry, Professor Dulay, Professor Maier, Professor Torres, and Professor Moore. Words of Wisdom: Nothing is Impossible! The word itself says, "I'm possible!"

ARDIS GRIFFIN

Certificate/ Degree: AA-T Psychology & AA-T Sociology

Transfer College & Major: Agnes Scott College, Psychology Major

What is your GCC story?
I came to GCC after an embarrassing High School experience. In High School I underwent some extremely impactful experiences including homelessness and targeted homophobic and anti-Semitic bullying. My grades crumbled, and I was even questioned by the school board as to why I would remain at the school (in the district I had been in most of my life) if I was at a homeless shelter in a different area (which was only a 15-minute drive away). I didn’t have the support I needed in order to succeed, and I truly couldn’t imagine a future for myself. Community College gave me a second chance, and allowed me to display my strengths without any setbacks.

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
At GCC, I was able to receive financial aid, which was extremely imperative to my success. The aid allows my family (which has not been homeless for about 5 years now, but has not fully yet recovered financially) to be able to stay in the same apartment we have lived in, without having the amount of financial stress we had prior. I was able to get the help I needed for my learning disabilities through DSPS, and I was able to have a community I belonged to through the Pride Center. My professors were always incredibly supportive. The transfer center helped applying to colleges far less stressful than I thought it was going to be. 

How did GCC influence your life and career?
I already had the general idea that I wanted to work in the public sector doing either social work, or psychological care. I really enjoyed studying Physiological Psychology, so I have decided to pursue a Bachelors in Psychology, and then go on to Medical School for Psychiatry.

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Put in the time, and work smarter, not harder. It’s much more efficient to make flashcards on Quizlet than it is to stare a your professor’s slides for hours on end.

MICHELLE REMACHE

Certificate/ Degree: AAT- Psychology

Transfer College & Major: UC Riverside, Psychology 

What is your GCC story?
GCC was the first step to a new college educational start in my life. Coming to this college after taking a year off of High school graduation was the smoothest and brilliant transition I have ever made. Attending GCC was the best decision, being there for the past 2 years has allowed me to discover a variety of classes that have helped me narrow down in figuring out my major and the classes have all educated me in profound ways to learn more about the world. The learning environment in the classroom has always felt encouraging, positive, welcoming and safe for all students. The professors here truly go above and beyond when it comes to teaching the subject and you can tell they care about the students here, all of my professors  have always done their best to lend a helping hand out to the students through office hours or providing extra credit. 

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
With the support of all my fondest professors, the student organization "La Comunidad" and the free resources offered on campus. I have been surrounded by all of these fantastic people who have helped me in different ways to succeed academically. As a first generation Latina student it was really valuable for me to get the most out of all the opportunities and resources GCC had to offer. I was given the financial opportunity to basically attend for free and have most expenses covered. I'm deeply grateful for everything that this school has been able to give to me and for all students to make it affordable to pursue an education. I was fortunate to take as many classes at my own pace to dive into interesting subjects that I was curious about and to learn more about it. I was able to complete all of my general educational classes here for transfer and fuel my learning in Psychology. I believe that my time here has allowed me to prepare myself as a college student ready to take on upper-division courses at UC Riverside.   

How did GCC influence your life and career?
I will always remember and treasure my valuable experiences I have made here with my professors, friends and with myself, growing up as a young woman since the start of my journey at GCC. Lets me just say that the journey was not an easy highway to get to. I was challenged to always do better and pushed to succeed for every class I've had. Regardless, everything I have done came with hard work and consistency. I will forever continue to expand my knowledge in life and push myself to do everything that I want out of life. The influences I've had here exposed me to meet all kinds of people from different races to ages, which has allowed me to better understand others and to communicate effectively. Being able to talk to just anyone I have met has positively allowed me to create long lasting relationships with my peers and with my professors. I was able to flourish as a young woman at this school to the max at this school and will forever be grateful for it.

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
Shout-out to Professor Martinez from the Psychology department for all your hard work, kindness, and mentorship, it does not go unnoticed!. She has inspired me to pursue this career by expanding my knowledge, principles and experiences on this discipline. For that I figured out my connection to this major and I can't wait to see how far I can go to help others. 
I also want to recognize Professor Peterson from the History department, she opened up my world to Women's history a subject that I was never aware of before and it taught me valuable lessons about the women's oppression in a patriarchy society and how women of color have fought for their liberty to public speaking. I will forever be reminded of all the women in history that came before us to fight for our rights. Lastly, Professor Anna Maria Mann from the Art department, her positivity in the studio art classroom has always been a therapeutic environment to express my creativity and to slow down after hustling from class assignments. It was always fun going to her class and never feeling judged for my works of art. She was one of the kindest art professors I have met at that always said to follow your dreams no matter what it is and to never confine to social standards of what society expects of us.

My words of wisdom to new coming students or returning students is to always believe in yourself no matter what the obstacle may be, learn from your experiences the good and the bad they will help you grow in so many ways, and that will help you flourish into a better student and person overall. Do your best in everything and try to go out of your comfort zone by connecting with the clubs, new friends, professors and find the free resources on campus that will help you to succeed at this school. Everything you need will always be there, you just have to make the most out of it,stay STRONG AND POSITIVE!

SAMVEL AZARYAN

Certificate/ Degree: Transfer

Transfer College & Major: UCLA, Pre-Sociology 

What is your GCC story?
I started attending GCC in 2016. I was fortunate to have the guidance of family members who encouraged me to take ESL classes at Glendale Community College. I took numerous ESL courses and communication classes during my first year in the U.S. before I could enroll in regular credit classes. 

How did GCC help you get where you want to be?
GCC helped me develop proactive attitude, passion for learning and determination in excelling academically. It was in GCC and with the help of EOPS that I broke the language barrier that stood between me and native English-speaking students. 

How did GCC influence your life and career?
Studying at GCC made me realize that I can overcome obstacles by speaking up and standing up for what I believe is right, a quality that I believe facilitates success.  

Shout-outs and Words of Wisdom?
I strongly think that the key to success is believing in oneself. That’s the recipe: believe, dream, attract, and expect.