"I have received financial aid and the YVC Foundation scholarship, which has provided immense help, allowing me to focus on my studies."
Pronouns
She/her
Degree/Certificate & Class Year
Associate in Science, 2024
Hometown
Yakima, Wash.
Extracurriculars (E.G, Clubs YVC Sports Teams)
STEM Club, MESA
What three words would you use to describe YVC?
Friendly, Welcoming, Resourceful
What’s your favorite class? Why? How has it expanded your knowledge?
My favorite class has been microbiology, which I have found fascinating as it has expanded my knowledge on bacteria and other microorganisms, which is a very interesting
topic.
Who is your mentor on campus? Why do you consider this person your mentor?
Cristy Rasmussen [STEM Director] is my mentor as she introduced me to MESA and the STEM Club, which have helped me throughout my college journey. Not only that, but she is always willing to answer any questions that I have and is an excellent resource as
a STEM student.
What made you want to come to YVC?
YVC is located in my hometown and offers the courses that I need to take at a cheaper price. Not only that, but I attended YVC as a Running Start student, so I knew that the community was friendly and welcoming.
How did you decide on a major?
Biology has always interested me, although I found it a little scary [at first] because of
its difficulty. Comprehending biology is essential to me, considering I want to enter
medical school.
Are there any barriers that you’ve overcome to be successful at YVC? Please describe.
Throughout my time at YVC, I have realized the importance of communicating with other
students. My shyness is a barrier I've had to overcome to do better in my studies.
What do you like or find most interesting about your major?
The most interesting thing about biology is how complex it is and how there is always
something more to learn.
Where do you find your community on campus?
I find my community on campus to be fellow STEM students as we are taking similar
courses that help us relate to each other.
What advice do you have for prospective students?
I advise prospective students to get out of their comfort zone as it can help them
grow as a person.
What’s your favorite spot on campus?
My favorite spot on campus is the STEM room, which provides a welcoming environment.
There are students there who are always willing to help with any questions whenever
they can.
How has Yakima Valley College changed you?
Before attending YVC, I found it challenging to start conversations with people, but
over time, YVC and its students have helped me become more social.
How do you manage stress?
I manage stress by taking a moment for myself and listening to podcasts.
What do you view is your biggest achievement at YVC?
My most significant achievement is graduating from YVC with honors while in Running
Start.
Did you receive any financial aid or scholarship funding to attend YVC? If so, please
describe how this helped you on your journey.
I have received financial aid and the YVC Foundation scholarship, which has provided immense help, allowing me to focus on my studies rather than
working to pay off my tuition.
What is your ultimate goal? Where would you like to end up?
My ultimate goal is to enter medical school and become a psychiatrist in Yakima.