What inspired you to attend PVCC?
I was an accidental student. My goal was to join the military after High School. I had committed to the USMC via the Delayed Enlisted Program as a Junior in high school; a path that would never come to fruition, because I had cancer in HS. My grades were poor, I never took the SAT or ACT and had no plans to attend college. Needing medical insurance from my parents, I was forced to go to college, specifically a community college due to my grades and the lack of ACT/SAT scores. I took my graduation money and enrolled in night classes. PVCC was near my job, so it made sense.
What was your major or focus of study at PVCC?
I took general study and prerequisites at PVCC.
What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?
The people I met at PVCC were incredible, both the teachers and the support staff. PVCC allowed me to explore education on my terms; choice of classes, time and day, as well as whether I went or not. The environment fostered a love of learning I had never felt prior.
How would you describe PVCC to others?
PVCC is a quality institution. It is for everyone. The size of the campus and classes made the experience positive, whereas these same aspects were negatives at ASU. I would recommend most students utilize community college to explore education and careers, without spending finite and unnecessary dollars at a large university; especially those paying their own way or borrowing.
Is there anything you would have done differently on your educational journey?
If I had to do it over, I would have gone to ASU West sooner. The smaller campus provided a CC feel, at University level.
Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…
After PVCC, I transferred to ASU main and eventually ASU West. I left school to become a Police Officer; quickly returning to finish my degree on the City of Phoenix’s dime. Later, I received a Master’s degree from AT Still University; also on the City’s dime, using tuition reimbursement. Following a 23-year career in Law Enforcement, I retired, transitioning into Financial Services. I have been a Financial Advisor with Principal Financial Group for 4 years now.
How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?
Most people aren’t certain what they want to be. I believe this causes a great deal of stress and possibly unnecessary debt. Get a degree in something you enjoy or a broad discipline, like Business or Finance. These will serve you in most jobs, even if you have several before finding your passion or long term career.
In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?
Law Enforcement was a great career. The experiences and connections I made have served me well in my new career. The pension also provides me financial security to grow my financial practice organically; without short cuts. The leap from public safety to financial services was huge. The studying and exams for the three licenses I hold were daunting and seemed as if I would never get through them.
How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?
All the education I have received has broadened my knowledge and social skills. While I believe that a formal education isn’t the end all, it does help open doors to opportunities you may not get without it.