Coming from a low-income household, the affordability and accessibility made PVCC very desirable for Emmanuel. He could continue to live at home and remain in his neighborhood. PVCC was a great bridge option for him and it was the first college Emmanuel looked at. Upon taking the placement exams; he learned his scores qualified him for the Honors Program plus a tuition waiver.
Emmanuel shared, “Faculty were very approachable; class sizes were great and very conducive to learning. Faculty, staff and Counseling and Career Services were very supportive.” PVCC proved to become a familiar place where he felt very welcomed and accepted. “It was an environment where you really can get to know people. A place to make great connections, get involved and pursue a myriad of leadership opportunities.”
Upon reflection of his campus influencers, several names come to mind for Emmanuel: Dr. Marianne Auten, Ivette Quintero, Dr. Linda Knoblock, Bahman Maneshni and Dr. Norma Chandler. These individuals were very helpful and supportive during his time at PVCC.
Among Emmanuel’s most positive memories is his participation in the Emerging Leaders Program. He developed enduring friendships as well as leadership and public speaking skills. Emmanuel was engaged in a number of student activities and societies: Phi Beta Lambda Business Club at PVCC, Emerging Leaders Program of PVCC, PVCC Student Ambassadors and Orientation Leaders, Arizona Town Hall, and the PVCC Honors Program. These opportunities provided him the opportunity to serve on panels, travel to conferences and represent the college all while expanding his horizons.
After graduating with Honors and High Distinction from PVCC, Emmanuel went on to attend Barrett Honors College and W.P. Carey Business School at ASU. Transitioning to a large, four-year institution felt a bit daunting, however, academically Emmanuel felt very prepared. Internships while at ASU then led to employment with GoDaddy and currently Emmanuel is a Business Analyst Consultant at Fidelity Investments.