DVC Alumni: Where Every Story Inspires the Next!

From Prison to Stanford: Monica Hicks' Inspiring Journey

In this riveting episode of the DVC Alumni Podcast, we sit down with Monica Hicks, whose journey from overcoming personal struggles to achieving academic success at Stanford University is nothing short of inspirational. Monica opens up about her tumultuous past, including facing behavioral challenges, substance abuse, and incarceration, and how witnessing her brother's graduation inspired her to turn her life around.
Monica shares how her time at Diablo Valley College (DVC) transformed her outlook on education and provided the support she needed to chase dreams she never thought possible. From studying English to transitioning into STEM, Monica highlights the pivotal role of educators and mentors who encouraged her endeavors and helped her build foundational skills.
The episode delves into Monica’s unique experiences, such as her advocacy in computer science for social good, her work in prison reform, and her prestigious internships, including one with Reddit. Monica also discusses her aspirations to return to academia as an educator, hoping to inspire others just as she was inspired at DVC.
Join us to hear about Monica’s remarkable journey and her ongoing commitment to empower those facing similar challenges, proving that with determination and support, academic and personal redemption is possible.

Navigating Global Experiences: Felicia Sindhu's Journey

In this captivating episode, Felicia Sindhu shares her remarkable journey from Bali, Indonesia to studying overseas. She talks about the challenges and opportunities of navigating different cultures and education systems. Initially, Felicia studied online due to COVID, then moved to the U.S. to explore college life at DVC, and now continues her academic pursuits in Australia. Join us as she reflects on the impact of cultural adaptation, the importance of soft skills, and her growth as a student navigating international experiences.

From Vallejo to Morehouse: A Journey of Resilience

Join us in this inspiring episode of DVC Alumni, where former Diablo Valley College student, Michael Cortez, shares his remarkable journey from growing up in Vallejo, California, to becoming a proud graduate of Morehouse College. Michael opens up about his experiences navigating life's obstacles, the impact of community and mentorship at DVC, and the powerful influence of his college years. This episode not only highlights his academic and personal achievements but also emphasizes the importance of networking and staying true to oneself. Listen in as Michael discusses his current role in data analytics and offers invaluable advice for those on their own collegiate paths.

Navigating Change: A High Schooler's Journey through 10 Schools and Dual Enrollment

In this episode, we dive into the life of Anya, a remarkable student who has navigated through ten different schools while engaging in dual enrollment at Diablo Valley College (DVC). Anya shares her inspiring journey from San Jose to Walnut Creek, discussing the unique challenges and opportunities she encountered along the way.
Join us as Anya talks about her experiences in various high schools, the decision to homeschool, and how she completed her high school credits early. Despite frequent moves, Anya turned these changes into opportunities for personal growth, forming connections and exploring new academic and entrepreneurial ventures.
We also explore Anya's passion for law and sales, her journalism endeavors with her news channel, Key Future News, and her innovative role in selling AI agents. Learn how Anya embraces change and uses consistency to drive her success, while also juggling various interests like music creation and plans for a dog treat business.
Anya's story is a testament to the power of adaptability and the potential of the next generation to shape the future. Tune in to get inspired by her dynamic journey and relentless pursuit of growth.

From Philly to Guam: Aaron's Journey Through Music, Military, and More

Join us as we dive into the fascinating life journey of Aaron Bronson Pinkney, an adventurer at heart. From his roots in Philadelphia to his current home in Guam, Aaron shares about his experiences in the military, his passion for music, and his unexpected transition into the legal world. Discover how he navigated through challenges, including health battles, all while embracing life's unpredictable paths. This episode is a testament to following your dreams and finding home wherever life takes you.

Navigating Housing Challenges with Heather Schiffman

Join us on a captivating journey through the world of real estate with Heather Schiffman, Chief Advocacy Officer for the Contra Costa Association of Realtors, as she shares her personal and professional stories. From her humble beginnings in Walnut Creek to her impactful role in real estate advocacy, Heather offers insightful reflections on navigating the ever-evolving housing market.
Explore the pressing issues in urban development and housing affordability, and gain valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities presented by California’s unique real estate landscape. Heather's stories and expertise reveal the underlying factors affecting property markets, providing practical advice for homebuyers and industry professionals alike.
Don’t miss this enlightening episode that delves into the intricacies of housing policies, economic factors, and the essential role of advocacy in shaping our communities.

From Dreams to Reality: Tiffany Rowe's Career Journey

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Tiffany Rowe, who grew up in Pleasant Hill with dreams of becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner. Despite facing financial limitations, Tiffany pursued her passion by enrolling in courses at DVC and later attending Western Career College for medical assisting. Her initial path in the medical field brought many challenges, and she ultimately found herself on a different trajectory.
After a tough decision to transition from the medical field due to its emotional toll, Tiffany discovered a new calling in the staffing industry, where she realized her true passion for helping others find meaningful employment. Her story highlights the importance of persistence, networking, and finding fulfillment in unexpected places. Join us as Tiffany shares her experiences navigating career shifts, the power of LinkedIn networking, and valuable job search tips that have guided her through a successful career in talent acquisition.

From Philippines to Cybersecurity: Duane Leem's Journey

In this episode, meet Duane Leem, a first-generation student from the Philippines who has crafted a remarkable career in cybersecurity. From his early days in the Philippines to his journey through Guam, Pittsburgh, and ultimately the Bay Area, Duane shares how his passion for programming at DVC set the foundation for his successful path in the tech industry. Learn about his experiences, challenges, and the key moments that shaped his career, including the vital role DVC played in his lifelong learning journey. Whether you're interested in tech, education, or personal growth, Duane's story is sure to inspire.