“Being in college helped me to realize that there's people that are here to help. It has helped me realize that we need each other.” 

Pronouns 
He/Him 

Degree/Certificate & Anticipated Class Year 
Associate in Business – DTA, 2026 

Hometown 
Sunnyside, WA 

How did you decide on a major? 
I like to speak Spanish, and originally, I thought I could use that talent in the field of medical interpreting. Once I started it seemed more complex than [I originally thought], because of the different dialects. So I decided to [explore] communication in the business pathway instead. 

Extracurriculars (e.g., clubs, YVC sports teams) 
American Sign Language (ASL) Club, TRIO Student Support Services 

What three words would you use to describe YVC? 
Fun, Unexpected, Inviting 

What’s your favorite class? Why? How has it expanded your knowledge? 
Statistics, because I believe that we are surrounded by data and statistics. [Understanding it] kind of helps us break down how to look at things and helps us make better choices in life.  

Who is your mentor on campus? Why do you consider this person your mentor? 
My advisor for the ASL Club [Instructor] John Paul Cyr. He's really helped me out. [Especially] when I was transitioning to get my hearing aids. I was nervous to get them. He told me how his mother got her hearing aids in Sunnyside and it helped me feel more [confident in my decision. 

What made you interested in studying at YVC? 
I kind of always liked school. I was living in Sunnyside and I decided to move to Yakima. I've been here over a year now and I just felt like, being born in Sunnyside my roots [are here] and I feel more at home. I feel like it's a great opportunity.  

How do you find and build your community on campus? 
I found my it through the Student Life Office and being part of the ASL Club. I started asking questions and they were able to help me. I can go in there and get advice on my future classes so [my schedule] won't be too overwhelming.  

What’s your favorite spot on campus? 
I like the Tutoring Center in the library. I'm with TRIO as well, being first generation, and have spent a lot of time studying [and finding support] in the center. 

Are there any barriers that you’ve overcome to be successful at YVC?  
For a time, I was homeless, and I wanted to go to school. But, [I thought] “How am I going to school if I have no place to study?” So, finding a permanent residence was an issue that I had to address and overcome. And once I was able to situate myself I jumped right away to go to school. Transportation was also a struggle, with no license, but Student Life helped me get a bus pass, which has helped a lot.  

I also struggle with medical issues. After my buddy died from an aneurysm — which brought me back to the valley — it was an eye opener, and told me that I need to take care of my health. I decided to focus on getting help and seeking medical treatment. I'm glad that I decided to focus on my health.  

How has Yakima Valley College changed you? 
Yakima Valley College changed me as far as my perspective of life. Being in college helped me to realize that there's people that are here to help. It has helped me realize that we need each other. There are people who are here for you. They're willing to help you, you just have to come to them and ask for help.  

Are there any support services or resources that you have taken advantage of? How have you found these beneficial? (e.g. tutoring, academic advising, library) 
Yes, TRIO and Disability Support Services. I'm involved with both programs. A friend from church recommended that I reach out for these services.  I took that advice and came and talked to the people and applied myself for help.  

What do you view as your biggest achievement at YVC? 
I was able to get some A's in the class and in English. It was hard. I could do the writing but organizing the paperwork and starting with an introduction and going off and then ending with the conclusion was challenging.  

What is your ultimate goal? Where would you like to end up? 
To earn a bachelor’s degree through YVC’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Management program.  

What advice do you have for prospective students? 
They're going to see how it is, very much, brain nourishing. The people and the staff here, they want you to be successful. And so they should come and take the shot for themselves and it’ll give them the opportunity to advance in life.