Victor Atchison was desirous of a well-rounded college experience and the opportunity to encounter “more of what college is all about.” He heeded the suggestion of one of his instructors, Romy Nelson, and decided to extend his reach beyond online courses. He enrolled in a couple of on-campus classes and then became a full-time student. Soon, Victor settled right into his groove.
Victor said he was most impressed by how diverse the college is. “I was concerned about being an older, returning student but was treated respectfully by everyone on campus.”
Victor acknowledges a number of “influencers” during his PVCC educational experience. Participating in Rowdy Duncan’s COM 101 Diversity and Inclusion class changed his perspective on college and life in general. “Diversity is the key,” Victor said. “We are all different but learning about other’s culture, their orientation, and their beliefs taught me to be a more open minded and diverse person.”
Of the numerous memorable experiences Victor had while a student at PVCC, the one that sticks out most is an adult reentry panel discussion he “had the pleasure of being part of.”
Victor shared, “Being in the Diversity classes and later to be a Facilitator of those classes will always be a highlight and forever have an impact on my life.”
One reason Victor recommends PVCC “at any and every opportunity” is because of the diversity of the school and also because of the staff. Victor’s advice to anyone planning to attend college is “to not be afraid to ask for help.”
Victor goes on to say “I would not trade the experiences I had at PVCC for the world. The Diversity classes and mentors helped mold my mind into one of service to others.” Additionally, Mike Ho, Jim Rubin and Michaelle Shadburne plus many others played supportive roles as his mentors. He continues his relationship with his PVCC mentors and engages in conversations with them about what is happening within our community, the country, and the world. Victor is an AmeriCorps Alumnus, and he attributes his current job as Judicial Clerk with the Maricopa County Adult Probation Department to the relationships he built along the way. “My PVCC education will always be one that I will cherish and taught me a lot about myself as a person,” Victor says.