Success Stories

“PVCC was a great stepping stone for me,” says Laura Besong. “I immediately felt at home.” Laura was not ready to go right on to a university out of high school, so she chose PVCC since it was close to home and she had taken a few classes while still in high school. She loves art, so she decided to make that her focus while getting her Associate’s degree. She describes her Art History class as “wonderful” and credits professor Gene Rister for making it a great experience.

When asked about her most memorable experiences at PVCC, Laura says being a Student Ambassador had a big impact on her. She had the opportunity to interact with many different people as she gave campus tours, recruited new students, participated in new student orientations and did some fundraising for PVCC.

Laura believes PVCC gave her a great launching pad to adulthood. She says PVCC was a safe place to grow up a little, help her mature and prepare for the next step to launch her to where she is today. She says, “if you are looking for an Associate’s degree or a gateway to help you make decisions in life, PVCC is a great place to go.”

Laura notes her involvement in activities outside the classroom helped her meet students of all ages and backgrounds. She liked the diversity that the PVCC environment offered. In addition, she says that her participation in activities outside the classroom set her up to say “yes” to future opportunities presented to her throughout her career journey.

And, it’s obvious Laura’s “yes” attitude has taken her far. After PVCC, she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree at ASU by attending night school while working full-time. Her advisor told her about internships offered through the Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars in Washington D.C. She jumped at the opportunity since she had family in the area. She was first hired as a Community Arts Center intern and loved it. After working for several years at the University of Maryland, Laura went on to receive her Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Baltimore. She pursued her interest in the federal government and entered the Pathways Program which serves as an entry into government careers.

Laura began her government career as a Records and Information Management Specialist for the U.S. Department of Education. She quickly climbed the ranks on the government’s General Service scale. She is now the Assistant Director of Records and Information Management for the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys. She says the position is perfect for her as it combines her interest in the history of the nation and her strong organizational skills.

Laura says she has fond memories of PVCC. She is an advocate for community college as it is a great place to figure things out. She admits to being a bit of a wild child, but she says, “when I was ready to do the right thing, PVCC was there for me.”

“After I had my second son, I decided to retire from my position as a Curriculum Developer and pursue nursing, my true passion. More specifically, I wanted to become a labor and delivery nurse,” says Lea Nuhanovic. Lea was drawn to PVCC because of its great student outcomes, small class sizes, excellent preparation for the NCLEX, and affordability. “I completed my BSN in a concurrent enrollment program with ASU for a fraction of the cost.”

Lea says that her instructors at PVCC were invested in and focused on students. “Every professor wanted to support us in our journey toward graduation, however, Jocelyn Goodwin was the most influential for me because of her passion for teaching coupled with her passion for the profession,” remarked Lea. “While she is not a labor and delivery nurse, she ensured that her students got to know and understand various aspects of nursing and focused on encouraging each of us based on our own unique interests. She is a true example of what a career in nursing is all about.”

The nursing program led Lea to meet some of her very best, lifelong friends. One of her most memorable and humbling experiences was donating her time to a soup kitchen and serve the community with her fellow nursing colleagues. Additionally, Lea appreciated the opportunity to gain hands-on experience as a volunteer at a pediatric vaccination clinic provided by Maricopa County as well as several wellness clinics to check blood pressure and head-to-toe assessments for uninsured and underinsured adults. 

When recalling her experience at PVCC, Lea shares, “I think my very first nursing course in Block One affected me the most because it was my first time getting a chance to dip my feet in the water and experience nursing with real patient interaction. I knew immediately that this career was truly my calling and I loved every minute of each clinical.” Professor Janice Podwika ensured Lea and her classmates that they were well prepared to be on their own taking care of patients in a nursing home setting. The course opened Lea’s eyes to all the different paths a nursing career can take and made her realize how lucky she is to have discovered her passion.

From the state-of-the-art lab equipment to the quality of instructors, Lea says that “PVCC has given me an undeniably outstanding education.” The relationships Lea developed continue even after she graduated. “My clinical instructors enthusiastically helped me gain footing as a new graduate with letters of recommendation and even helped me secure interviews for employment,” she said.

Lea obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from ASU and an MBA from Grand Canyon University and worked as a Curriculum Developer before embarking on her nursing career. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from ASU and has been a labor and delivery nurse since April 2020. Lea currently has her dream job at her favorite hospital, Downtown Banner University Medical Center. She says, “I am excited to see where my nursing journey takes me, and I am so thankful for the path that led me here.”

Leah’s path to PVCC came through her employment at the Jewish Community Center (JCC).  PVCC’s community outreach to offer work-site education at the JCC established a connection that later provided the conduit for Leah to pursue further education at PVCC.  As Leah reflects on her profession as an educator, she credits PVCC faculty members Christie Colunga and Ana Stigson with shaping who she is as an educator today.  She felt she was a good teacher before; thanks to the instruction and guidance of Christie and Ana, Leah went to the next level and became an educator.  They helped her set an elevated standard for her work in early childhood education.

As Leah reflects on her educational experience at PVCC as an evening student, she shares “I never dreaded going to class; I wanted to learn more, as there is always more to learn.”  One of her favorite classes was a Literacy Class.  Leah really likes children’s books and learning how to read books to children and keep them engaged was an outcome of her experience in this class.  The result for Leah is a broader and more meaningful outlook for her of the different possibilities in which an educator may use books in the classroom.

PVCC was “an olive branch” for Leah.  Her experience at PVCC helped her develop her network and extend her reach further than she realized she was capable.  Leah finds her PVCC education useful and relevant today as it enables her to thrive as she continues to strive toward meeting and exceeding her professional goals.

Leah convinced her employer of the benefit to her students and colleagues her participation in the recent in-depth study session in Reggio Emilia, Italy, that PVCC Early Childhood Education residential and adjunct faculty, program graduates, and students participated in.  Opportunities for dialogue and exchange with educators in Reggio Emilia during this week-long experience offered her many possibilities to gain a deeper understanding of the history, challenges, strategies and accomplishments of the Municipal Infant Toddler Centers and Preschools of Reggio Emilia.  These insights will enlighten her practice as an Early Childhood Educator. 

From Phoenix to Italy and back, Leah continues to expand her professional horizons and credits PVCC for the role it has played in her development.

Lee Rank has made a lasting impact on and off campus. Everyone around campus knew Lee – for his spirited appearances as the PVCC Puma mascot, his many volunteer activities, and his student leadership presence. The then-20-year-old Taiwanese native, who struggled as a child to overcome learning challenges and classification as a special needs student, was determined to strive for success. Finishing strong, he earned a 4.0 GPA his senior year in high school and was accepted at several major universities.

During his time at the college, Lee became a PVCC honors student, a member of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the international two-year college honor society, and the Male Empowerment Network (MEN) program. His passionate activism earned him a 2014 Puma Paw award for student leadership and a MEN scholarship. He was also selected to attend a Global Leadership Conference. An avid baseball fan, Lee’s favorite college memory is representing PVCC as the Puma at a Diamondbacks game, where he met his favorite players and showed his Puma Pride on the field.

Off campus, Lee was a dedicated community volunteer who made lasting contributions as a volunteer for his alma mater, Shadow Mountain High School; the North Valley Police Explorers; and the Shiloh Community Church. He also volunteered as a peer mentor for students utilizing Disability Resources.

“It’s about serving others, not myself,” he explains, adding that his philosophy is to “be a quarterback, not a wide receiver.”

After leaving PVCC, Lee’s energy was an asset to Grand Canyon University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Management degree with an honors distinction in Spring 2017. During Lee’s pursuit of his Bachelor degree, Lee participated in a competition in Washington DC, representing GCU. Lee was actively involved in business clubs, honors, the club softball team and worked as a tutor. Lee also participated in helping with the lunch menu at GCU. Lee is currently working on becoming a restaurant manager. We wish you every success Lee!

What inspired you to attend PVCC? 

In this case it was location.

What was your major or focus of study at PVCC?

Fine Arts and Equine Science. I used PVCC to get my general classes taken care of.

What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?

The math teacher at the time. He knew just how to teach his students so they could understand College Algebra.

How would you describe PVCC to others? What advice would you give those considering PVCC as their educational provider?

It’s a nice campus, well laid out.  Start out with basic courses, to figure out what you want in the meantime.

What was your biggest challenge in your educational journey and how did you overcome it?

I didn't really have any challenges… I loved school.



Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…

I started my own business but not in Fine Arts. Then, after leaving AZ and moving to MO, I moved back to AZ and started a publishing/marketing business.

How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?

Do something you love and you will never work a day in your life.

In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?

Owning my own business for more than 30 years. The challenges of owning a business and maintaining credibility for this long. Society and life causes changes that are sometimes difficult to overcome.

How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?

It taught me you can do anything, if you put your mind to do it!

What inspired you to attend PVCC?

My friend Zach was attending PVCC and offered to take me on a tour of the Union Hills campus, after speaking so highly of his experience at PVCC. I was immediately impressed with how welcoming the campus felt and how helpful the staff was. After that day, I knew I wanted to attend PVCC and quickly enrolled!

What was your major or focus of study at PVCC? And what year did you graduate?

While at PVCC, I explored business and sustainability before graduating with my Associate of Arts and Associate of General Studies in 2018. Thanks in part to my prior coursework, I was also able to quickly complete a Certificate of Completion in Insurance Studies from Rio Salado College in 2019.

What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?

One of my favorite PVCC memories was simply walking around campus and enjoying the desert landscape outside. It helped me decompress after a test or get my body moving on days I had a higher course load. When I had a few extra minutes to spare, one of my favorite spots to catch my breath was the M Courtyard. The other most memorable experience at PVCC for me was graduation. As a first-generation college graduate, graduating is an achievement that will always be meaningful to me!

How would you describe PVCC to others? Would you recommend PVCC and why? 

PVCC is an affordable and engaging community college that helps learners with their education and career paths. I would absolutely recommend PVCC! PVCC is a great opportunity for students of all ages and backgrounds to come together to better themselves through higher learning.

What piece of advice would you give to PVCC students?

Utilize your resources! Use a tutor or connect with your teacher during office hours throughout the semester. Periodically meet with an academic advisor or counselor to make sure you’re staying on track. Ultimately, you’re responsible for your success, but there are SO many student resources available to support you!

Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…

While attending PVCC, I was also working part-time as a Customer Service Representative for State Farm Mutual Automotive Insurance Company. I continued my insurance career at State Farm after graduation from PVCC and moved into auto claims. I handled auto property damage claims before later handling first-party auto medical claims. I now am a Claim Team Manager. In addition to my education from PVCC, I completed several insurance industry designations.

How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?

Give yourself grace and know that everyone‘s path might not be the same. PVCC is a great opportunity to explore your interests!

In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?

My greatest success in my career journey has been the opportunity to help others. I’ve had the chance to help customers work through difficult situations and losses. Additionally, I’ve been able to help coach and develop others. One of my greatest challenges is managing competing priorities. However, with proper planning and time management, I aim to prioritize my tasks with flexibility for changes while striving to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?

My experience at PVCC helped encourage me to challenge myself as a lifelong learner.

The two most memorable aspects of Makram Jreissat’s PVCC experience were the Honors Program and participating in extracurricular activities. Lasting friendships and a sense of belonging were the greatest outcomes of his involvement. “I remember hanging out in the Honors room several times a week and always having a fun time talking about random things. It felt like I belonged. I made friends there that I still talk to today, and those are times I miss and wish I could go back to. 

Identifying one significant course or activity is challenging for Makram. “HON 190 taught me about critical thinking and how important and dangerous ideas are. My math and science classes were all excellently taught and deepened my understanding of the world. My role in creating a STEAM panel discussion event and being president of STEAM club taught me leadership, and my time with Honors taught me how to take a step back and enjoy life. Everything had a big impact on me in some way or another.”

Makram’s foray into Calculus 3 with Gary Kellgren was equally rewarding. Gary “was one of the most caring, intelligent, and funny instructors I had. His office hours always helped, and his new way of test taking made me think of how we don’t always have to stick to how things have been done before. He was tough but because of that, the depth of understanding I had for math was deeper than my university classmates at ASU.”

Makram’s leadership skills provided the foundation for the alumni panels PVCC now offers. He wanted to afford students the opportunity to “learn more about what engineering careers are like, so there wouldn’t be a big disconnect between academics and career work.” He worked closely with Dr. Casey Durandet, and this idea “transformed to ‘Full STEAM Ahead! A Panel Discussion on Careers in STEAM.’"

Makram attributes the development of his work ethic to PVCC which continues to be invaluable in his professional life. “I’m glad I was able to do this at PVCC because there were no “roadblocks”, per se, in the environment. The road was open, and all I had to do was put in the work. If I ever got stuck, there was always someone to help me, so it allowed me to be as productive as I could be. This now helps me realize when I’m being productive or if I’m stuck and need a break or some guidance.”

“Honestly, I imagine PVCC having the best of both worlds when it comes to education. It has a social high school atmosphere, small class sizes, and the freedom that a college gives its students. Alongside that, it has excellent education with its courses and instructors.”

Makram earned his bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering at ASU. He is currently working in his family’s business, improving his programming skills, and working on his startup. He is an engineer, an entrepreneur, and a musician.

What inspired you to attend PVCC? 

When I moved to Arizona, I was looking for a smaller school to continue my educational journey. PVCC was right down the road from my house, so I checked it out and enrolled the next day.

What was your major or focus of study at PVCC?

Finishing my general education credits to get an associate’s degree so that I could focus on an English or journalism major. I was undecided at that point.

What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?

I remember feeling very comfortable around my peers and professors. Classes were easy to find, and signing up for courses was also pretty simple – which helped, since at the time I wasn’t sure what I was doing.

How would you describe PVCC to others? Would you recommend PVCC and why?  What advice would you give those considering PVCC as their educational provider?

Kind of like a small town in a big city. Once you’re signed up, you don’t have that overwhelming feeling of, “Okay, now what?” It’s easy to navigate and courses are educational, of course, but I also remember having a lot of fun. Could be the people I sat next to, but I don’t remember feeling stressed out about my classes. I would recommend PVCC, yes, especially if you’re just starting out and not sure where you want to go after getting an associate’s degree. The only thing that was “annoying” was the student website – but I’m sure that’s been updated since I was there. Advice I would give is to just go for it. If you’re looking to further your education, PVCC is a great place to start.

Is there anything you would have done differently on your educational journey?

I would have gone to college right after high school instead of waiting a few years. I feel like I missed out on that real “college” feeling – I was older, so I didn’t attend sports games, or join any clubs, or participate in any events – and I feel like that’s a big part of the experience. My biggest challenge was feeling like I fit in – at PVCC and when I went to ASU afterwards. I felt like I was older than the other students and – in a way – more experienced, so at that point it was just “get a degree and get out of there”. If I’d have gone right after high school, I might have ended up in a totally different industry.

Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…

I Graduated from PVCC and went to ASU’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. I was working part-time and freelancing for Arcadia News while at ASU, and when I graduated, they asked if I wanted to interview for the managing editor position at the paper. I said yes, and have been here for almost five years. 

How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?

If you have an idea of what you’d like to do, look into internships or part-time positions at places within that industry. Research and find out what you can about the ins-and-outs of the industry before committing to a degree. The more you know beforehand, the more prepared you will be.

In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?

Greatest success is landing a job right after graduation. It’s a smaller paper, but I love what I do and the people I work with. After all this time, it’s still such an awesome feeling seeing my name in the byline. Plus, I get to meet some amazing people and hang out at places I wouldn’t ever think of going.

One of my greatest challenges within the industry has been finding reliable writers. Within my personal life, it’s finding ways to make sure my work and myself as a person do not get stagnant. I like change, I like to keep moving and finding ways to better myself – so I strive to find things that help me do that.

How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?

If it wasn’t for PVCC and my creative writing class (shout out to Professor Roma-Deeley!) I wouldn’t have realized how much I enjoy writing – creative or otherwise.

After graduating from Horizon High School in 2013, Mariah Butcher took a couple years off to volunteer with an organization that catered to kids in 6th-12th grade. That experience solidified her desire to teach. She says, “attending a big university seemed daunting, so I chose PVCC because it was inviting, inclusive, and safe.”

Mariah says she felt empowered and welcomed at PVCC. She was not worried about being left behind, or not being seen, or not making it to graduation. Mariah recalls the impact being a part of Festival of Tales had. She says, “promoting literacy for all ages, and to families I now serve in my current job, is so important. We have a job as community members to support each other. That event was proof that it works; we can come together to affect change because change in the smallest form is still change. I have students at my current school who have attended the event and still have the books that they brag about. For some of them, it's one of the few items that they can call their own.”

Mariah credits several teachers at PVCC for her success. She says, “Meggin Kirk was one of the most influential instructors at PVCC. She ignited a drive I had all along. She helped me stay the course when I was going through some personal stuff and she also helped me find my teacher's voice. Her charisma and her passion for teaching is contagious. Diane Stryk was another memorable teacher. Mariah says, “she was actually my 8th grade math teacher at Explorer Middle School and remembered me. She taught my math course specifically for education, talk about full circle! Her warm spirit was exactly what I needed to finish my Associates Degree.” Lastly, Mariah appreciated her English 101 and 102 teacher, Lawrence Kraft, for his blunt, yet constructive feedback on her essays. She says, “I hadn’t written in so long, so he really challenged me to be better. Now I teach my 6th grade students the tools he taught me in writing.”

When asked how she would describe PVCC to others, Mariah stated, “harmonious.” She says this because, “we are all learning at different levels and paces, but it works. Some people are at PVCC on scholarship for sports, while others are pursuing a career as fire fighters or nurses. Everyone has a groove that feels like more than high school, but not impersonal like it can feel at large universities. I had classes with all sorts of people that had roles outside of being a student. We still studied together, laughed together, and graduated together.”

After leaving PVCC, Mariah transferred to Northern Arizona University’s Flagstaff campus. She was a part of the Transfer Honor Society and graduated summa cum laude from the College of Education two years later in 2019. She then moved back to Phoenix and took a teaching position in Paradise Valley Unified School District. She has been teaching at Palomino Intermediate School for three years.

What inspired you to attend PVCC?

In looking at nursing schools, PVCC had impressive NCLEX passing rates and overall positive reviews from students/former students. It was affordable, close to home, and offered a schedule that was feasible for me while also working full time and homeschooling our youngest son.

What was your major or focus of study at PVCC? And what year did you graduate?

December 2019 - I graduated with an Associates in Nursing and completed my registered nursing program at PVCC.

What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?

I truly had some great experiences at PVCC. To date, some of my closest friends were classmates. We’d stay up late at night, drink coffee all day, and study every minute we could. Lab days were stressful as we’d be called down in small groups to perform what we knew before instructors. We’d cry in relief together as we’d pass exams and move forward together. It was unreal and a phenomenal learning experience; to that I give credit to some amazing instructors. First block of courses were taught by Prof. Janice Podwika - she was firm, knowledgeable, and weeded out individuals that did not belong in the program. She enforced rules and was the first individual we all encountered that gave us a taste of nursing reality.

How would you describe PVCC to others? Would you recommend PVCC and why? 

I would and do recommend PVCC. The education was exceptional and standards high; it was competitive to get into the program and even more competitive to graduate. We had to work hard for each grade and nothing was given - everything we achieved was earned. It was well structured, well designed, and geared to the individual who desired to learn and succeed. We were taught to work both independently and in teams; we could not succeed if we were not well rounded and adaptable - much like what would be required of us once we entered the real world of nursing. PVCC offers programs that encourage individuals to be their best selves and increase one's knowledge. The programs are challenging and worth every tear, lost minute of sleep, and stress induced-backache incurred while obtaining one’s degree.

What piece of advice would you give to PVCC students?

Persevere. Do not expect a degree to be handed to you without the work. Put in the work, listen to your instructors, talk to those that graduated ahead of you, and push through the stressors to accomplish greatness.

Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…

Quail Run Behavioral Health: Floor psychiatric RN, Adolescent Floor Manager, House Supervisor; completed my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program through South College in August 2022 and currently work as a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Terros Health full-time and also part-time at Core Recovery and Summit Mental Health. My focus is on adolescent and young adult behavioral health, ages 3-50, and I continue to learn every day.

How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?

Look at the things that you love - and figure out how to turn it into a career. It is also ok to change career paths along the way; this is my third career and I have loved each one along the way. It is important to recognize that education is vital; whether it’s learning on the job, increasing your knowledge though obtaining an additional degree (or more), or a combination thereof. Work your way up - don’t expect the highest paid position on day one - remember that others have done their time before you and you can learn from them. And, as you work your way up, you may change your mind and choose a different path - that’s ok too! Don’t be afraid to ask questions - ask about other people's careers, their path, what they do and don’t love about their jobs. You can learn from others if you listen.

In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?

During my career journey, it has always been a challenge working full time, being a mother, wife, and managing a household. I have always worked multiple jobs in an effort to increase my knowledge and experience and my work/life/school has always been a delicate balance. Having a supportive family has been key for my successes. Being able to help children and adolescents with their mental health; I feel it is so vital to work with the youth in our community as they are our future leaders. Too many children have been left behind and without ample psychiatric treatment - especially in the last few years with all the societal changes. My success comes from seeing them improve, return to school, work through their traumas, talk out their stressors.

How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?

My experiences at PVCC led me to where I am. The courses were the stepping stone to my practice as a provider and led to my ability to further help the children and adolescents within our community.

Before PVCC, Marjorie Ruiz had a desire to know more about Early Childhood Education as a means to understand her children’s learning processes. Her involvement in PVCC has “cultivated and planted in me a seed that continues to grow. It has disrupted, in a good way, my thinking and transformed me into a researcher aspiring for more and inquiring for the possibilities of what we don’t know, the unexpected, and the complexities that live inside simplicity.”

Her PVCC journey has been positively influenced by many with “Christie Colunga and Ana Stigsson being the most influential and extraordinary people. They are two forces of nature that have guided, empowered, challenged, and opened my eyes to so many opportunities along the way.” She also cites Eric Bucher, another passionate early childhood educator that has given her many opportunities; like collaborating with Raising Arizona Kids to write an article featuring the capabilities of the children in her classroom as well as giving her a voice to bring their work to broader communities. As friends and mentors they “play a crucial role in my growth as an early educator. Because of them, I have had the opportunity to lead Professional Development opportunities and to share my knowledge and research alongside children with others in the community to provide a different view point and lens by which to approach and impact early childhood education.”

Marjorie is an active participant in the Collaborator Educator Institution (CEI) and Leading Learners Council (LLC) both funded by First Things First. This engagement has given her “extensive opportunities, connections, and a world of possibilities.” She was a member of the Study Group to Reggio Emilia. This opportunity to closely study this emergent way of education has “transformed my way of teaching.” The book study groups have been another impactful and meaningful extracurricular activity. “Reflecting and sharing our thoughts and points of view is expanding our understanding.”

Many of Marjorie’s classes have been influential in developing her understanding of other cultures and diverse ways of learning and teaching. Students at PVCC come from many parts of the world as well as many communities around Arizona. “Every time I step into a class or participate in professional development, I have the opportunity to learn more about others. The professors in the ECE department are very inclusive. I am from Puerto Rico, even though part of the US, I still have a different culture and language that came with me.”

The scholarships Marjorie received played an essential role in her completion of the ECE Certificate, CDA certification, and her Associate’s degree. This support has been significant and encouraging; “knowing that I am getting a worthwhile and impactful education and that there are programs available to help with the finances is huge. There are so many opportunities; we just have to look for them. The PVCC advisors, faculty and staff works diligently to make sure you are aware of the benefits out there. The sky is the limit!”

What inspired you to attend PVCC?

Attending PVCC was inspired by its location and affordability. As a first-generation student, I lacked knowledge of resources but luckily PVCC was present at my high school and I applied.

What was your major or focus of study at PVCC? And what year did you graduate?

After working as a work-study at PVCC, I discovered my passion for helping other students continue their education. Although I initially focused on nursing, I completed my Associate of Arts degree in 2019.

What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?

I enjoyed the flexibility of creating my schedule and have always appreciated the campus.

How would you describe PVCC to others? Would you recommend PVCC and why?

I strongly recommend PVCC to others not only because it is affordable, but also due to its beautiful campus and the amazing faculty and staff. I was able to build great relationships at PVCC, which opened up many opportunities for me in my education and career in higher education.

What piece of advice would you give to PVCC students?

As someone who has been a student, my advice to fellow students would be to never hesitate to ask questions when they face confusion or uncertainty. During my first year in college, I didn't have anyone to turn to for answers, but I found the Welcome Center to be a great resource for any queries related to classes or financial aid

Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…

In 2019, I finished my AA and continued taking classes at PVCC to fulfill the requirements for a 90/30 program that leads to a bachelor's degree in Strategic Leadership. Once I completed the necessary 90 credits, I transferred to NAU and finished my remaining classes virtually due to the pandemic.

How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?

My advice to students would be to try different things and if they don't enjoy it, they should try something else. Initially, I had a desire to become a nurse but after taking a few nursing prerequisites, I realized it wasn't for me. One of the benefits of attending a community college is that it's less expensive than a university and it allows you to explore various options before making a final decision.

In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?

One of my greatest challenges was learning a new language and being a first-generation student. Not having someone who can guide you is hard but PVCC opened many doors for me in my professional career and education. The greatest success for me I would say was attending PVCC because of the many doors it opened for me after being a student and a work-study.

How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?

PVCC was instrumental in directing me to my current job as the coordinator for the Puma Early College program. I thoroughly enjoy what I do, as it allows me to assist students in commencing their college careers earlier, and it fascinates me to see how this will benefit them in their future professions. My role involves guiding and supporting students in achieving their academic objectives.

When he reflects on his PVCC experience, Max Sommacampagna realizes what a sound financial decision it was to start his higher education journey at PVCC.  As he interacts with his professional peers in the real estate community, Max is reminded on a regular basis how significant student debt ruins one’s prospects for financial security.

The opportunity to take classes taught by adjunct faculty working in the field enabled Max to receive real world application in addition to textbook learning.  Max is appreciative of the good accounting professors he had during his tenure at PVCC as well as Professor Quarrels in Business Law.  Max shares that he is a “huge proponent of students attending the community college to obtain their Associates degree prior to transitioning over to a four-year institution.”  The educational foundation Max received at PVCC enabled him to excel as he moved on to complete his bachelors degree. The ease of parking, the class and campus size and the accessibility of support both within the classroom and the campus community created a dynamic, supportive environment for Max to thrive at PVCC. 

One of the highlights of Max’s extracurricular experiences at PVCC was competing in the Phi Beta Lambda, national competition under the leadership of Professor Jason Latham.  Phi Beta Lambda is the collegiate level of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and is the oldest and largest national organization for students preparing for careers in business leadership. 

Max looks forward to becoming actively engaged in our PVCC Alumni program.  The opportunity to collaborate and network with other alumni is very appealing and he looks forward to giving back to the PVCC campus community. 

What inspired you to attend PVCC?

PVCC gave me the opportunity to get a great education that I could actually afford. PVCC also provided the flexibility I needed to find the classes and schedule that was right for me. I could enroll in a mix of in-person and online classes to help balance work and school, which was crucial for me.

What was your major or focus of study at PVCC?

I did an associates degree in business at PVCC. I was able to experience a blend of different business courses like accounting and economics that gave me great exposure to subjects I would fall in love with, and continue to study years later.

What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?

PVCC has some great professors! I still remember bits of lectures, and I keep in touch with a couple of my professors from my time at PVCC. They provide the highest level of education, and you can tell they love teaching. I also really enjoyed attending PUMA athletics events and admiring the beautiful Life Science Building.

How would you describe PVCC to others? Would you recommend PVCC and why?

PVCC is a place where you can go for a great education in the heart of your local community. I would highly recommend PVCC, and I would tell those considering the school you can rest assured that you will receive a quality education in a place where the staff and faculty are there to help you every step of the way.

Is there anything you would have done differently on your educational journey?

I would have gotten involved in more activities and clubs on campus! PVCC has a big list of clubs that look like fun and provide a great opportunity to connect with your peers.

My brother always goes to stargazing nights at your north campus which is a very cool and unique offering!

Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…

After PVCC I focused on my career in financial services for a while. I worked at a mutual fund company where I learned about investments and earned the required licenses, and then I transitioned to private banking, where I help clients plan and manage their finances. I returned to school online, and finished a Bachelors of Business Administration, and I am proud to say I will graduate with an MBA this fall!

How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?

My advice would be to pursue subjects and careers that fascinate you. This way, you’re passionate about learning your craft. It’s also important to keep an open mind. In college, you’ll be exposed to new classes and ideas that may captivate you. I had no idea what economics was before taking that class at PVCC, and now it’s my favorite subject and a crucial part of my job.

In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?

One of my greatest successes has been to pass the numerous industry exams required to work in the investment field. They are notoriously difficult and your job is dependent on you passing the exams. It’s such a great feeling to pass them all and hold the licenses that I do.

One of the greatest challenges I still face is networking. It can be difficult to get out of your comfort zone to meet new people and make meaningful connections. Especially if you feel pressure to make a good first impression. Knowing how and where to network is really something you have to practice.

How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?

I had two particular professors that influenced my interest and led me to explore the field of finance further. One was a teacher of GBS 151 at PVCC, but also a full time investment manager. His insight and passion for his field was infectious. He used current events and news articles to make studying business very relevant.

Another was an economics professor who showed how useful Econ was, not only to business decisions, but also to everyday life. This led me to a position where I have to research and think about not only the greater economy, but the economics of individuals as part of my job.

Matthew Logelin’s high school Guidance Counselor suggested he look at PVCC for his next step.  He started out as a car-to-class-to-car student, however the Spring of 2015 he took Meggin Kirk’s Intro to Education class and that class was the turning point in his career as an undergraduate student.  Matthew became very active in Club Ed and was the representative to the Student Government meetings.  In 2017, he became the Teacher Development Center Coordinator and has been actively engaged with the bi-annual PVCC community event, Festival of Tales.

The one word Matthew utilizes to summate his role as a PVCC student leader is that of “ambassador.”  Matthew’s commitment to education pervades all that he shares regarding his experience at PVCC.  He is a “volunteer extraordinaire” and credits the multitude of experiences he has had while a student at PVCC with laying the foundation for his professional pursuits and his commitment to serve others.  Matthew was the recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award in 2018 (silver award for 175 hours of service) and again in 2019 (gold award for over 300 hours of service).

Matthew recommends PVCC to others. The small, campus community environment provides countless opportunities to be actively engaged.  PVCC provides a high-value, economical educational experience and a great foundational experience with quality faculty.  Matthew shared, “Numerous scholarship opportunities are provided plus the faculty, staff and administration at PVCC are very student-centered.” Mike Ho, Director of Student Life and Leadership, was instrumental in Matthew’s last year at PVCC.  A highlight was the opportunity to present a workshop at the National Collegiate Leadership Conference on civic engagement and leadership.

Matthew graduated from ASU spring of 2019 with a Bachelor’s degree in educational studies and then went on to obtain a Master's degree in Educational Foundations from Northern Arizona University.

Matthew currently works at Paradise Valley Community College as an Academic Success Coach in the Learning Success Center, to help students work on their time management, note taking, test taking skills and more. Matthew also works with children in grades K-6th in an after school and summer program called, "After the Bell." This program provides children a safe and fun place to be outside of school. Matthew’s goal is to work in the education and/or non-profit sector long-term.