DVC Alumni: Where Every Story Inspires the Next!

Creating Cultural Connections: Let’s Celebrate our Vibrant South Asian Community

Send us a textGet ready to embark on an inspiring journey with Jay Gima, a political science major at Diablo Valley College, as he passionately discusses the power of community and cultural connection. Jay, who has already made waves as a member of Toastmasters and other clubs, shares his personal story of founding the South Asian Student Alliance (SASA) on campus. Discover how his California upbringing, love for sports, and commitment to mental and physical health advocacy have shaped his vision for a vibrant South Asian community. Learn how SASA serves as a cultural bridge, representing a tapestry of countries from India to Afghanistan and beyond, and aims to educate and celebrate through engaging events.Jay takes us behind the scenes of SASA's mission, highlighting the importance of understanding historical events like the partition of India and Pakistan, and how these narratives are shared to foster awareness and connection. Excitement builds as Jay reveals plans for an upcoming dance event on November 15th—an evening promising music, dance, and delectable cuisine. Join us as we explore Jay's dedication to creating a lasting legacy for South Asian students on campus, and how his journey is not only about cultural preservation but also about inspiring others to find their own community and voice.Check out the South Asian Student Alliance here Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success.DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.

Episode #13: Building Bridges in Contra Costa County with Bob Linscheid

Send us a textWhat happens when you mix the blue-collar grit of Pittsburg with the vibrant community spirit of Chico, California? Join us as Bob Linscheid, President and CEO of the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, shares his remarkable journey from East Contra Costa County to becoming a key figure in Central Contra Costa. Bob reflects on his fascinating childhood experiences and high school football rivalries, his transformative education at Diablo Valley College alongside his mother, and how his dreams of a career in law enforcement took a different turn. Through Bob's story, discover the power of mentorship in shaping a local leader's path.The episode takes a deep dive into the unique political and cultural landscape of Chico, where the bold vision of bringing minor league baseball to the city became a beacon of community collaboration. Inspired by a potential move of the San Francisco Giants, our guest recounts the determined efforts to create Nettleton Stadium and the formation of the Chico Heat, despite the challenges faced along the way. This chapter in Chico's history underscores the significant role sports can play in bridging divides and fostering a sense of belonging among residents, even when the initial plans don't go as expected.As we turn our attention to the future, we delve into the essential topic of preparing the next generation for opportunities yet to unfold. Uncover the efforts being made to equip young people with the necessary skills to thrive, alongside exciting developments in the medical device field in Contra Costa County. Our discussion highlights the importance of civic engagement, the collective power of voting, and the impact of regional collaboration in shaping vibrant communities. Through the lens of Bob's experiences and insights, we explore how open dialogue and collaborative spirit can drive meaningful change. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success.DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.

Resource Thursday: Building Bridges and Community at Diablo Valley College with Ramiro Ibarra

Send us a textRamiro Ibarra's journey from the bustling streets of San Francisco to a fulfilling career at Diablo Valley College is nothing short of inspiring. As a program coordinator, Ramiro brings a wealth of experience, from his early days navigating Catholic school and the real estate market, to his impactful work in financial literacy and homeownership counseling. Throughout his path, Ramiro has remained adaptable, turning life's unexpected challenges into opportunities for growth and connection, including a charming involvement with the college's Cheese Club.Education's transformative power is showcased through the story of a mature student who embraced higher education at almost 40, defying the odds and battling imposter syndrome. Balancing work, parenting, and studies, this student's narrative highlights the vital role of support programs like EOPS, CARE, and CalWORKs at Diablo Valley College. With resilience at its core, this story underscores the significance of seeking help and utilizing campus resources, showcasing a community dedicated to empowering students to overcome obstacles.The episode further explores work-life balance and career transitions, following Ramiro's journey from the food services industry to a rewarding position in the First Year Experience program. Amid the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Romero's enthusiasm and adaptability shone through, securing a role that supports new students via structured pathways and peer advisors. This episode is a testament to the mutual inspiration between students and mentors, the strength of community support, and the welcoming environment that Diablo Valley College fosters for all who embark on their educational journey. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success.DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.

Episode #12: Community College Impact: A Family’s Success Story

Send us a textAfter navigating through her family's ongoing battle with cancer, Margaret Tuholski found her way from Carondelet High School to Diablo Valley College (DVC), and later UC Santa Barbara, embracing each challenge along the way. We welcome Margaret and her son, Kevin Tuholsky, who followed a similarly transformative path from De La Salle High School to DVC and then UC Berkeley. Through their stories, we uncover the profound impact DVC has had on their lives, both academically and personally, as the institution celebrates its 75th anniversary. Margaret and Kevin reflect on how DVC served as a pivotal stepping stone, offering a rich sense of community and an affordable, quality education that shaped their futures in profound ways.Education is more than just a series of steps; it’s a journey filled with personal growth and the power of connections. Listen as Kevin and Margaret share their experiences of perseverance and adaptability, learning from influential mentors, and the crucial role networking played in their paths. Kevin's transition from De La Salle to DVC, and eventually to a finance career at UC Berkeley, highlights the significant lessons learned along the way. Margaret's insights on switching from Catholic schools to public college life reveal the value of embracing change and making informed decisions about one's educational and career journey.Our discussion crescendos into the realm of career evolution, where lifelong learning becomes a guiding principle. Margaret, a seasoned educator, and Kevin, a finance professional, provide valuable advice on personal finance education, effective networking, and the evolving nature of careers. They emphasize the importance of setting clear goals and remaining open to new opportunities, underscoring the importance of engaging with others and exploring diverse professions. Tune in to discover how community service and continuous growth can lead to personal and professional fulfillment, all while cherishing the memories and lessons gained from DVC's vibrant environment. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success.DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.

Episode #11: Estie Briggs on Leadership and EQ Mastery

Send us a textEmbark on an enlightening journey with Estie Briggs, an emotional intelligence coach, whose path from software implementation to teaching in the UK is nothing short of inspiring. Estie shares her unconventional route to higher education, beginning at Diablo Valley College in her 30s, and how it paved the way for her passion in leadership development. She delves into influential experiences that shaped her career, including her transformative days at DVC and her transition to St. Mary's College for a Bachelor's in Leadership and Organizational Studies.Discover the critical role of emotional intelligence in both personal and professional spheres as Estie challenges the misconception of EQ as mere "soft skills." Through her captivating stories, including valuable parenting lessons, Estie highlights how EQ is essential for effective communication and leadership. She introduces us to tools like the DISC model for understanding communication styles and PURE for managing emotional responses, illustrating their practical applications in improving interpersonal interactions.As we wrap up, Estie inspires with her decision to pursue a master's degree, emphasizing the power of seizing opportunities. Her insights encourage us all to take actionable steps towards personal growth, no matter where we are in our journey. Plus, Estee offers a special DVC alumni discount for her courses, providing a unique opportunity for continued learning and growth. Join us for this compelling conversation and start transforming your emotional intelligence today.If you'd like to find out more about what Estie does you can find here here:https://www.briggsperformanceconsulting.com/ Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success.DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.

Episode #10: A Surgeon’s Tale of Mentorship and Diversity

Send us a textMichael Galvez's journey from a modest upbringing in San Francisco to becoming a full-time pediatric surgeon is nothing short of inspiring. Despite facing academic hurdles, Michael's story reveals how a serendipitous gym encounter led to a laboratory job, sparking an unexpected path into the world of science and medicine. From early influences, such as his grandfather's legacy as a pediatric surgeon in Peru, to hands-on experiences at John Muir Hospital and San Francisco General, Michael's narrative highlights the profound impact of mentorship, perseverance, and adaptability in achieving professional success.We navigate through Michael's unique experiences, like breeding mice – a hobby that unlocked doors to a UCSF research position, contributing to significant scientific discoveries. This blend of research and practical medical exposure was instrumental in his path to medical school, overcoming challenges such as the MCAT and GPA hurdles. Michael also sheds light on the critical need for diverse healthcare pathways, particularly for Latino physicians, emphasizing the importance of bilingual and bicultural training. Highlighting initiatives like National Latino Physician Day, Michael advocates for systemic changes to reduce barriers for underserved students, making medical education more accessible.The episode concludes with a heartfelt discussion on the human element of healthcare, underscoring the necessity of genuine connections in patient care. Michael emphasizes the balance between integrating technology and maintaining compassionate, personal interactions, especially in today's business-like healthcare landscape. By sharing personal stories and highlighting diverse career paths, this conversation not only inspires future medical professionals but also calls for a more inclusive, empathetic approach to medicine that meets the needs of all communities. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success.DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.

Episode #9: Breaking Boundaries in Dance Education with Kimberly Valmore

Send us a textKimberly Valmore's journey through the world of dance is as inspiring as it is transformative. As the Department Chair of Dance at Diablo Valley College, Kimberly shares her unique story of resilience and triumph, from her early days as one of the few African-American students in a predominantly white ballet school to overcoming financial challenges at the Alvin Ailey Dance Center in New York. With experiences spanning the globe as a military brat and training under a Paris Opera Ballet instructor, Kimberly's path is a testament to the profound impact of mentorship and cultural diversity in shaping a successful dance career.Our conversation with Kimberly reveals the passion and dedication behind her role as a dance educator at DVC, where she emphasizes the importance of diversity, acceptance, and creating a safe space for all students. Her serendipitous journey to becoming a college professor is a story of assertiveness and embracing her calling as a teacher. Kimberly's dedication has turned a modest offering of dance classes into a comprehensive, thriving program that encourages students from all backgrounds to explore their potential and enriches the community through the arts.Kimberly's insights into choreography and performance challenge the misconceptions about the effort and creativity required in dance. By encouraging students to push the boundaries of their artistic expression, she nurtures a vibrant community that celebrates diversity in race, body type, and abilities. As we wrap up, Kimberly shares her excitement about upcoming performances and her plans to continue fostering passion and hard work in her students, demonstrating the transformative power of dance education. Join us as we explore how Kimberly Valmore is shaping the future of dance at Diablo Valley College and beyond.Learn more about DVC Dance here:DVC Dance Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success.DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.

Episode #8: Crafting Community through Cheesy Ventures

Send us a textEver thought about how a simple love for cheese could unite a community? Join us as we chat with Josh Gonzalez, the innovative founder of the Cheese Club at Diablo Valley College, who transformed his passion for cheese into a unique gathering spot for fellow STEM enthusiasts. Josh takes us through his academic adventures as a C student in high school to straight A's at DVC, from struggling with programming to discovering his knack for robotics, culminating in the spontaneous creation of the Cheese Club. This isn't just about cheese; it's about building connections and fostering a sense of belonging among students and faculty who share a zest for life and, of course, cheese.With over 100 attendees and counting, this quirky club has become a sensation on campus. Learn how Josh and his team navigate the logistics of sourcing cheeses and securing funding, all while maintaining the club's whimsical appeal. Beyond the slice of cheddar, the Cheese Club is a testament to the power of community spirit and collaboration. From cherished childhood trips to the French Marin Cheese Company to current gatherings, Josh's cheese-inspired journey is nothing short of inspiring. This episode promises laughter, community, and maybe even a cheesy pun or two.Check out the DVC Cheese Club here. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success.DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.

Episode #7: AI, Machine Learning, and the Future: Duane Leem’s Perspective

Send us a textWhat if you could transform your passion for technology into a fulfilling career that spans continents? Meet Duane Leem, a trailblazing first-generation Filipino-Chinese cybersecurity professional whose journey inspires and motivates. From his roots in the Philippines to the serene landscapes of Guam, and finally to the bustling tech hub of the Bay Area, Duane shares the family support and educational experiences that have been pivotal in his career. His deep gratitude for Diablo Valley College, where an advanced Java programming course set the foundation for his current expertise, is a testament to the transformative power of education. The tech industry is a fast-paced world where evolution is the only constant. Together, we explore the milestones that shaped Duane’s career, from early days at Heald School learning Visual Basic, to roles at Quest Communications and Vario, and even major corporations like Bank of America. This tale of progression is rich with insights, highlighting the significance of adaptation and growth in an ever-changing landscape. Duane's story also underscores the importance of lifelong learning and how revisiting educational institutions like DVC has kept him at the forefront of technology trends.In the realm of artificial intelligence and machine learning, Duane stands as a beacon of continuous improvement and curiosity. His experiences with the MIT DevOps program and his role at Warrior Trading illustrate how AI is becoming a crucial part of everyday life, from predictive analytics to professional communications. As Duane gears up to share his insights on AI safety at conferences, he emphasizes the role of certifications and the pursuit of knowledge in overcoming self-doubt and achieving success. Join us as we uncover not just the technical journey of a cybersecurity professional, but a tale of resilience, aspiration, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success.DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.

Resource Thursday: From Networking to Internships: Navigating Career Success with Teresa Hade and Rachelle Rivers

Send us a textEver wondered how real-world experience can transform your career? Get ready to be inspired by Teresa Hade and Rachelle Rivers from Diablo Valley College's Workforce Development Office. Teresa's story of moving from New Jersey to the Bay Area and finding her passion in workforce development illustrates the power of perseverance and aligning your skills with your passions. Meanwhile, Rochelle's unexpected journey from juggling multiple jobs to landing a professional office role highlights the serendipity of networking and the importance of internships. You'll gain invaluable insights into the resources DVC offers to help students bridge the gap between education and meaningful employment.Discover how industry partnerships at DVC are creating a curriculum that equips students with relevant, in-demand skills. With active collaborations across 27 departments and advisory boards guiding the process, students are gaining hands-on experiences that align with industry needs. Employers, many of whom are DVC alumni, play a crucial role by offering internships, job postings, and mentorship opportunities. Teresa and Rochelle discuss how these partnerships benefit both students and employers, providing a platform for mentorship and potential future hires.Join us as we explore essential job search strategies, from crafting tailored applications to mastering engaging interview responses. Teresa and Rochelle provide practical advice on securing letters of recommendation and navigating the unpredictable world of networking. We also shed light on the evolving role of community colleges in offering practical skills through internships and certificate programs, making them a versatile option for career advancement. Don't miss our anticipation for the upcoming collaboration with the Handshake team, promising even more exciting content in future episodes. Thank you for tuning in. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring stories from the DVC community. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming episodes. Have a story to share or a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep pushing boundaries, embracing connections, and navigating your own path to success.DVC Alumni: Where every story inspires the next.