Arman Ghazi found the motivation he needed at PVCC to begin his education and create opportunities he didn’t even know existed. After being homeschooled in his younger years, at the age of 13 he realized he needed to push himself and told his parents he wanted to go to a community college. So at 14, he enrolled in one class and eventually became a full-time student. He really liked the flexibility college offered and the opportunities to interact with professors and other students in a meaningful way. He didn’t like the thought of having to just be friends with people his own age, so he relished the idea of coming to PVCC to meet people of all ages and backgrounds.
Arman says many professors at PVCC have made a difference in his life. In particular, Dr. Caron Sada, Psychology Professor, encouraged Arman to become involved in Club Z, a club that takes on specific initiatives with an entrepreneurial sprit in mind. Dr. Kishore Dash, Director of the Entrepreneurial Education Center (EEC), invited Arman to be the only student speaker at the Grand Opening of the EEC which was attended by local dignitaries and VIPs. He says both professors encourage students to reach their full potential both in and out of class. Arman credits math professor, Maribeth Marquard, for erasing his mental block in math. He said it was the first time he was not “miserable” in math and felt comfortable from the get go.
Last semester Arman was one of 26 students selected to be a “Bright Star” Student Ambassador at PVCC’s 30th Anniversary Gala. Arman and all the ambassadors played an integral part in the success of the evening. From telling his story to attendees, to getting to know the other ambassadors, to reuniting with professors; Arman says it was a very valuable experience.
Arman’s goal is to create positive social change in all he does. He believes in doing his best to make an impact in his community. He is already making a difference by planning and facilitating Youth Leadership camps and after-school programs.
He’s close to finishing his Associate of Arts degree and sees many potential paths such as Business Entrepreneur, Youth Development and Teaching, Sustainability or Urban Planning.
Arman says, “PVCC has made a huge impact in my life. I am grateful for the unexpected opportunities I have received at PVCC. I tell people not to just get in your car and leave. Take full advantage of what the campus has to offer.”