DVC Alumni: Where Every Story Inspires the Next!

Episode #6: Bridging Military and Academia: Success Stories from Oliver Greenwood

Send us a textWhat does it take to transition from a Marine Corps machine gunner to a student leader at Diablo Valley College? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Oliver Greenwood as he shares his captivating journey. You'll discover how influential professors like Bill Poschman, Bob Manberg, and Manny Gonzalez helped him bridge the gap between military life and civilian academic success, ultimately guiding him towards higher educational goals.Ever wondered how someone moves from performing magic shows to running for public office? Oliver offers a behind-the-scenes look at his diverse career path, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of both worlds. He emphasizes the importance of relationship-building with educators and leveraging those connections, which helped him transfer to the University of California, Berkeley. Gain insights into the power of showing up, the value of solid study habits, and the impactful lessons he imparts to future generations.In an unexpected twist, we explore Oliver's venture into the legal field, focusing on conservatorships, estate planning, and guardianship law. Learn how mentorship and self-belief played pivotal roles in his career transformation. Oliver's story culminates with personal shoutouts and campaign details, showcasing his deep commitment to community and family. Tune in to hear his excitement and hopes for the future as he navigates new professional landscapes.You can reach Oliver at:https://calprobatelaw.com/And you can reach out to his City Council Campaign at:https://www.ogforph.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.

Resource Thursday: Building Community and Resilience with Marina Varela at The Student Veterans Resource Center

Send us a textEver wondered how a first-generation college student and Air Force veteran dependent overcame tremendous obstacles to become a leader in educational support? Meet Marina Varela, the interim manager of the Student Veterans Resource Center at Diablo Valley College, who shares her transformative journey from struggling student to educational leader. Marina's story is not just about personal triumph but also about the power of community and the importance of accessing the right resources. From her initial challenges at Diablo Valley College to her enriching experiences at New Mexico State University, including joining a sorority and taking on leadership roles, Marina’s path is a testament to resilience and the importance of seeking help.We also shine a spotlight on the Student Veterans Resource Center, exploring its growth and impact on veteran students and their families. Learn about the unique programs like veteran-to-veteran math tutoring and collaborative campus initiatives that provide both academic support and a sense of community. Marina’s dedication to helping students mirrors her own journey, making this episode a compelling listen for anyone interested in veteran support, educational leadership, and the transformative power of a supportive community in higher education. Whether you’re a veteran, a student, or someone passionate about educational development, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.You can reach out to the SVRC below:Student Veterans Resource Center 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 #5: From Private School to Community College: Tori Pearson’s Journey of Growth

Send us a textHave you ever faced a culture shock that made you re-evaluate your world? Join us as we hear from Tori Pearson, a 19-year-old second-year student at Diablo Valley College, who recounts her journey from a privileged private school in Walnut Creek to the diverse halls of Ygnacio Valley High School. Tori navigates the stark contrasts between these environments, shedding light on her humbling realization of the varied economic and social challenges her peers encountered. This episode promises a deep dive into the benefits of starting at a community college, a path influenced by Tori's family tradition, and the insightful experiences that come with it.Embark on a journey with another DVC student, an aspiring English major with dreams of transferring to UC Santa Barbara. This student speaks passionately about their efforts to immerse themselves in campus life, from joining The Inquirer, the school newspaper, to engaging with the Alumni Association events. Their story is one of transformation—from a reserved middle schooler to an active participant in the college community, driven by their love for reading and socializing. The episode offers a rich narrative on the importance of building a network and the role of extracurricular activities in shaping one's academic and professional path.Our conversation wraps up with a powerful message on stepping out of comfort zones and embracing growth. Reflecting on high school experiences like joining the cheerleading team, our guest highlights how such decisions fostered confidence and a strong sense of identity. The narrative extends to college years, focusing on intentional choices about their English major and career aspirations. This episode is a compelling testament to the value of visualizing long-term goals and taking proactive steps, underscoring resilience and the continuous pursuit of personal and academic growth. Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration, practical advice, and the relentless spirit of perseverance. 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: Transforming Lives Through Student Support Services with Rachel Luna

Send us a textWhat transformative power do student support services hold in shaping lives and communities? Join us as we sit down with Rachel Luna, the dedicated Senior Program Manager at Diablo Valley College (DVC), to explore this deeply significant question. Rachel provides an in-depth look at groundbreaking programs like EOPS, CARE, CalWORKs, and Foster Youth Services, each designed to bridge equity gaps and empower students from diverse backgrounds. Born out of the civil rights movement, EOPS exemplifies the commitment to leveling the playing field through comprehensive support, from essential school supplies to community-building workshops.Rachel takes us deeper into the DVC ecosystem, spotlighting the life-changing impact of CalWORKs and specialized foster youth programs. Discover how CalWORKs goes beyond individual support to uplift entire families, creating a nurturing environment through family-friendly events and access to a children's center. We also delve into the challenges faced by foster youth and the uniquely tailored support offered by the START and NextUp programs. Rachel shares heartfelt stories of resilience and triumph, underscoring the importance of personalized, ongoing encouragement to help these students not just attend but graduate from college.Our conversation uncovers the vital role of community connections in amplifying student success at DVC. Learn how strategic partnerships with financial aid, disability support services, and community donors create a robust safety net for students. From providing essential hygiene items and snacks to organizing enriching events like "Bring Your Kid to School Day," Rachel explains how small yet meaningful gestures can foster a culture of care and belonging. Whether through donations or volunteer efforts, discover the numerous ways you can contribute to a thriving educational community at DVC.Check out the resources here:EOPS: www.dvc.edu/eopsFoster Youth Services: www.dvc.edu/fosteryouthBring Your Kids to College Day: 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 #4: Navigating a New World: Glad Lynn’s Journey from Myanmar to DVC

Send us a textWhat if your life's path took a drastic turn from medical school in Myanmar to navigating college life in California amidst a global pandemic and political upheaval? Kyi Sin Lynn, affectionately called Glad, shares her awe-inspiring journey filled with resilience and determination. From facing societal and parental pressures to study medicine to courageously seizing an opportunity to study abroad during a military coup, Glad's story is a testament to perseverance and unyielding spirit. Join us as we uncover how she independently navigated the American college application process and graduated in business administration from Diablo Valley College (DVC).Throughout this episode, we explore the logistical and financial challenges faced by international students like Glad, who leaned on her father's unwavering support to overcome numerous hurdles. Learn how she adapted to life in a new country, battling language barriers and adjusting to an English-speaking classroom during the pandemic. Glad’s journey, from missing orientation due to flight schedules to finding her place in campus clubs, exemplifies the transformative power of community involvement and leadership. Her active participation in the International Student Club, which culminated in her becoming the club president, highlights her ability to turn initial feelings of disconnection into meaningful connections and roles.Amidst academic pressures and part-time jobs, Glad also faced intense emotional and mental health challenges. From the political turmoil in Myanmar affecting her family to the pressures of adapting to a new life, her story reveals the importance of seeking support and taking initiative. Tune in to hear Glad's advice on resilience and perseverance, and how she found solace in community involvement and support from college counselors. Her journey underscores that despite life's toughest obstacles, with determination and support, it is possible to carve out a fulfilling path and find success. 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 #3: From Homeschool to DVC: Embracing New Horizons with Aaron Shey

Send us a textWhat does it mean to balance East Coast conservative values with Bay Area liberalism? Our latest episode features Aaron Shey, a dynamic student from Diablo Valley College (DVC), who navigates this complex landscape through his unique educational journey. From being homeschooled in Walnut Creek to overcoming college rejections, Aaron's story is an inspiring tapestry of resilience and adaptability. He compares his initial experiences at DVC to driving a manual car—challenging but ultimately empowering.Aaron's passion for community-building shines through as we discuss the creation of the Crochet Club at DVC, where he has served as president. This club became a sanctuary for students post-pandemic, offering meaningful connections over task-oriented interactions. Aaron shares his motivations for starting the club and his ambitious plans to transfer to UC Berkeley, aiming to recreate this supportive environment in a new academic setting.As we celebrate DVC's 75th anniversary, Aaron reflects on the often-overlooked potential of community college alumni networks. We delve into the importance of authentic connections through student clubs and Aaron’s vision for fostering genuine community spirit. Tune in for a motivational message that underscores the significance of building lasting relationships in higher education and beyond. 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 #2: Navigating Community College Success with Ala Mokhtabad

Send us a textHave you ever wondered what it takes for a first-generation immigrant to not only survive but thrive in the American education system? Join us as we explore the extraordinary journey of Ala Mohktabad, who defied conventional paths by graduating high school two years early with her GED and navigating her way to UC Berkeley. This episode unravels the inspiring narrative of Ala's life, starting from her early educational challenges in her small village of Amory to her successful transition to Diablo Valley College in the summer of 2022. We delve into the pivotal role of academic counseling and the supportive environment of community colleges that helped Ala adapt both socially and academically.As Ala shares her story, she offers invaluable advice for students on building community and leveraging resources to make higher education more accessible. Discover her insights on understanding your specific field of study, the importance of attending office hours, and the strategic use of scholarships. Ala's experience underscores the significance of programs like the first two years free at community colleges, providing a detailed roadmap for first-generation and low-income students with big dreams. Tune in to hear how determination and support systems can turn aspirations into reality. 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 #1: Uncovering the Power of Alpha Beta Gamma with Aitana Sahni

Send us a textCan you imagine leaving high school early, earning a GED, and then becoming a pivotal leader at your college? That's exactly what Aitana, a second-year student at Diablo Valley College (DVC), has done. In this episode, she opens up about her unique educational journey, from San Ramon Valley High School to the supportive and inspiring environment of DVC. Aitana attributes her drive to the values instilled by her Californian upbringing and her immigrant parents' work ethic, all of which have shaped her path to success. Our conversation with Aitana dives into the transformative power of Alpha Beta Gamma, the business honor society that has played a crucial role in her academic growth and transfer ambitions. We discuss the invaluable resources Alpha Beta Gamma offers and how it has guided her towards a potential future at UC Berkeley and a career in law and public service. Aitana also shares how role models like Kamala Harris have inspired her to carve out her own unique path while staying true to her values and aspirations.We wrap up our episode with a compelling discussion on self-development and the dynamics between generations. Aitana reveals how she's turned perceived personal flaws into strengths, using them as powerful tools for advocacy. We also touch on the confidence and technological savvy of the younger generation, their self-doubt, and the enthusiasm they bring to innovation. Lastly, we introduce our new series spotlighting DVC clubs, where we aim to highlight the incredible efforts and stories within the DVC community. Join us for an inspiring journey filled with insights, aspirations, and the promise of great things to come. 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.