Following in the footsteps of her older brothers, Alma always knew that she would attend Glendale Community College after graduating from Dysart High School. The decision was made easier after seeing their success, which they, and Alma, attribute to their time as Gauchos. Both brothers have graduated from GCC and are now one attends GCU and the other is a graduate from ASU. Alma and her brothers are the first from her family to attend college. While in high school the three of them were very involved in extra-curricular activities. Soccer for her brothers, and dance and cheerleading for Alma. She stated, “I really enjoyed the self-discipline and friendships that I developed.”
Her family’s involvement in athletics has helped give Alma her direction for her career. Her goal is to get into sports management, which is why she is focusing her studies on Business Administration with an internship with the Athletics department. To secure this opportunity Alma worked with Communication Faculty, Pam Joraanstad, Director of Marketing John Heckenlaible, and Athletic Director Peter Oliszczak.
In the near term, her plan is to continue to work and attend GCC part-time. After graduation in May of 2023 she will transfer to ASU West where she will pursue her bachelor’s degree.
When asked about her experience at GCC Alma stated that everyone is so friendly and helpful. “The campus is so beautiful and welcoming. At first, I thought I would be overwhelmed but that wasn’t the case at all. I was comfortable immediately.” Stated Alma. She added, “My instructors are great, they reach out if they think students need help or a bit more attention.”
One of the great benefits about going to a community college is that you can explore different paths. “Something that I learned here at GCC is that I have a talent for writing,” Alma said when asked about her time at Glendale Community College.
She summed up her experience at GCC this way. “I will graduate with two degrees and a certificate of completion! Plus, I met lots of fun people and I got to meet my best friends here.”