Annabelle Acosta

Annabelle Acosta

What inspired you to attend PVCC?

I was invited to join for fun by a previous acquaintance. A former student of PVCC called me and another acquaintance to join PVCC and take class just for fun. So, I ended up taking classes with them and ended up staying at PVCC until I received my AA in General Arts.

What was your major or focus of study at PVCC? And what year did you graduate?

AA in General Arts 90/30 program offered at PVCC – Dec 2021 during the Pandemic.

What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?

One of the most impressive factors of my term at PVCC was the sense of community and the connections I formed with fellow students and professors. The supportive atmosphere and fascinating classes made my education experience really enriching.

How would you describe PVCC to others? Would you recommend PVCC and why? 

PVCC is a welcoming and diverse college that promotes an optimistic and unique learning atmosphere. The committed faculty and diverse academic programs develop a space where students can flourish and find their passions. Furthermore, extracurricular and co-curricular activities are also a huge part of the college, and this is an area where one grows from different facets. Indeed, I would highly suggest PVCC to others. The quality of education, the feeling of community, and the flexibility in academic programs aid any student to earn their focus certification easily. PVCC was pivotal in achieving my educational pursuits.

What piece of advice would you give to PVCC students?

My advice to PVCC students would be about engaging fully in the college experience. Engaging in extracurricular activities, building relationships with professors, and exploiting all the resources is a holistic strategy for academic success and individual development.

Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…

After graduating PVCC with an Associates of Arts Dec 2021, I did the 90/30 program offered at PVCC, and did 30 at NAU. I graduated in Dec 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration at NAU. At the moment, I am a 1st year graduate student at NAU, studying Educational Leadership-Community College / Higher Education (MED). Currently, I am working at Paradise Valley community college in Admission and Records.

How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?

Exploring diverse classes and activities to find one's interests is crucial. Students should reflect on their strengths and desires and pursue guidance from advisors or mentors. It is essential to seek a path that matches one's goals to find satisfaction in one's education and career.

In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?

One of the most significant wins in my career journey has been achieving my AA in General Arts at PVCC, particularly during the difficult times of the pandemic. A noteworthy challenge I encountered was adjusting to the uncertainties emerging over the pandemic, but those obstacles bolstered my strength and adaptability.

How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?

PVCC directly impacts my work by empowering me with a strong groundwork of knowledge and skills. The various learning experiences and exchanges with fellow students and professors shaped my strategy of approaching, cultivating a perspective of continued knowledge and adaptability in my career.