“The most important thing I learned at YVC is to accept as many opportunities as possible.” 

Degree/Certificate Earned 
Business Technology Administrative Office Assistant & Certificates for Legal and Medical Receptionists ‘24 

Hometown 
Yakima 

Major 
Business Technology Administrative Office Assistant 

Extracurriculars (e.g., clubs, YVC sports teams) 
College Success Foundation (CSF) 

What three words would you use to describe YVC? 
Affordable, Diverse, Inclusive 

What made you interested in studying at Yakima Valley College? 
I wanted to stay close to all my friends and family, and I am honestly so happy I decided to come to YVC.

How did you decide on a major? 
I took the YV Tech Business Administration course — we got to do internships and I decided to do it at Eisenhower High School. It was interesting seeing how everyone in the office gets things done, it sparked my passion for assisting others whether it was parents, students or other faculty members. 

What would you say is the most important thing you learned at Yakima Valley College? 
The most important thing I learned at YVC is to accept as many opportunities as possible.  

What was your favorite class? How did it expand your knowledge? 
My favorite class was Office Procedures (BT 272). This class helped me come out of my shell; I was a timid person before coming to this class. We would present with new groups every week, not only did I become more comfortable talking in front of big groups of people, but I improved my teamwork skills.  

Who was your mentor on campus? Why do you consider this person your mentor? 
I have two people I consider my mentors, [Business Technology Instructor] Holly Cousens and [College Success Foundation College Success Coach] Samantha Reyes. Holly was always giving me space to grow, and I see how much she cares about students. She is passionate about what she does, and it motivates me to work harder towards my goals. Samantha was always there to help me with any questions I had, she provides a lot of help to other students in the CSF program. Without her I would’ve struggled a lot more with financial issues and she provides a safe space for students who are struggling mentally, emotionally or financially.  

Where there any barriers that you had to overcome to be success at YVC? 
It’s not easy, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. I struggled financially throughout my time at YVC, I was always wondering how I was going to eat the next day, how I would get to school and if I would have to live in my car. There were many obstacles I had to go through, thankfully, I reached out to the [college’s] counselors for help. They were able to help me pay another month of rent and [provided] money for transportation. There are resources everywhere at YVC, you [just] must be willing to reach out and ask for help.  

What advice do you have for prospective students? 
Don’t give up. Stuff happens in life and it may seem like it will never get better, but I promise it will be worth it in the end. Still try to have fun. Don’t focus too much on trying to pass every exam and every assignment, allow yourself to take a break and to have fun.  

Do you have anything else you’d like to share with us about your experience at YVC? 
My positive experience was all thanks to my amazing instructors and the amazing people at CSF. I am so glad that I came to YVC. I met amazing people, learned useful skills and joined some fun events.  

Is there anyone you’d like to thank for supporting your journey here (an instructor, staff member, family, etc)? 
I would like to thank my friends, Rosalinda and Angela, for getting me out of my house so I don’t isolate myself. My parents and my older sister, for always supporting my decisions and not letting me go through this journey alone. Lastly, Business Technology Instructor Holly Cousens for always telling me about different opportunities and for allowing me to be a part of her Tenure Review Committee.  

What’s next for you after graduation? What excites you about that? 
I hope to get a job in a law firm as an administrative assistant. I am excited to finally put the skills I learned at YVC to use in the real world.