What inspired you to attend PVCC?
I didn’t want to go to college really as I didn’t want to be a financial burden to my parents but after a family meeting the summer after high school we agreed it was the best option for me at the time. PVCC was close to home and would be a great place to make a transition from high school to college.
What was your major or focus of study at PVCC?
My primary objective was to get as many required classes for the business degree out of the way as possible. The small class settings made it ideal.
What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?
Like high school it was really the fun of attending with many of my friends from high school. Mr. Thielen taught interpersonal communication which quickly became my favorite class and gave me tools I still use to this day.
How would you describe PVCC to others?
It’s changed a lot in the 30 years since I went there, the growth has been phenomenal to watch.
What piece of advice would you give to PVCC students?
Just don’t give up.
Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…
After PVCC I went to NAU and graduated with a degree in business. I knew I wanted to be in banking and climbed the retail banking ladder until I was introduced to the mortgage business and I knew that was for me. Now I am National Sales Manager for a national mortgage lender.
How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?
Everyone has an opinion, listen to them all but go after what you want. It’s your life that no one but you has to live. Make smart choices.
In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?
Funny, my greatest challenge in school was math and now I do it for a living everyday. Like most businesses, being able to survive the ups and down is key.
How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?
Being at PVCC really opened my mind to so much more than I can express. From economics to marketing, so many great classes taught by people who were living it or have lived it. Often light bulbs go off and I remember one of the things instructors taught me.