In celebration of our graduating Honors students, PVCC is proud to highlight the inspiring stories of those who have excelled academically and personally through the Honors program.
As a student pursuing a degree in Biological Sciences with a pre-pharmacy focus, Ryan Key knew that success would require more than just showing up to class. That’s why he joined Paradise Valley Community College’s Honors Program—an experience that has shaped not just his academic path, but his personal growth in ways he never expected.
“Being part of PVCC’s Honors Program means that you are a part of a close community of high-achieving students,” Key shared. “It doesn’t just mean your classes are harder—it challenges you to think critically and engage more deeply with the material. It’s a different kind of learning.”
For Key, the program offered more than academic rigor.The social connections and support system built through events like Student Honors Advisory Council (SHAC) meetings and honors trips played a transformative role in his time at PVCC.
“It’s amazing to see so many students show up to the SHAC meetings and start connecting with each other,” he said. “It’s a community that pushes you to grow, not just in your studies, but as a person.”
That growth is evident in Key’s journey—from being a quieter, less outgoing student to now leading SHAC meetings himself as a student leader. “I was definitely not as social before I joined honors,” Key admitted. “But the honors trips and community events helped me break out of my shell and become who I am today.”
Key has big goals, and he's well on his way to achieving them. With plans to transfer to Northern Arizona University (NAU), he’ll be continuing his studies in biology in Flagstaff while working part-time and stepping into this new chapter. “It’s a big milestone for me,” he said. “The honors program helped me stay motivated, maintain my GPA, and stay on track to graduate with honors.”
For incoming students considering the program, Key has simple but impactful advice: get involved. “Try to attend every event the honors program offers. These are the best opportunities to connect, make friends, and create unforgettable memories. You’ll learn so much—not just about the program, but about yourself.”