Student: Mariana Garcia
Business Administration student Mariana Garcia has faced a lot of adversity in her life, but travels forward with the mentality that knowledge, and education, is for anyone.
"Growing up, because of my environment, I always assumed that you were either born smart or you weren’t. I didn’t know how to study, or earn an 'A'."
Today, Mariana thanks Moorpark’s friendly staff, especially Brandi Rieger from the Career Transfer Center, for her great strides in higher education. “She has been very helpful to me and lets me know about resources and scholarship opportunities here on campus.” Brandi Rieger is also the advisor for the Foster Youth Connections Club, in which Mariana, a former foster youth, is president. “We find that a lot of foster students aren’t claiming what’s available to them, so we try to find out about resources and general student help, scholarships and EOPS opportunities.”
Mariana’s greatest advice to new students is to ask questions and find out about clubs and resources available on campus. “I’m normally a very shy person, and I would not have tried so hard in school had it not been for Foster Youth Connection. Now I know that anyone can be an ‘A’ student. You just have to work for it.”
Mariana’s next goal is to join the Moorpark College Honors Program before transferring to a four-year university. She hopes to someday run her own business.
Student: DJ Marston
DJ has attended Moorpark College for 3 Semesters. He chose Moorpark College because of the proximity to his home and the small college environment & good reputation. “I thought it would be best for me to find my way, give me room to explore. Besides that classes are cheaper.”
DJ is interested in the Paramedic EMT program at VC; however plans to continue taking a few classes at MP to solidify his decision. “I have a desire to work in action-packed, intense environments that is why I find the EMT program intriguing.”
DJ currently works in the EOPS Office as a student employee and likes having a job on campus, “I don’t have to work weekends, it’s convenient and I really enjoy helping students.” “I want all students to feel welcome at MP; that it’s important to get involved & participate; especially in sports and campus clubs.” DJ feels that having pride in your college is important and hopes that students attend athletic activities like Baseball& Volleyball because they are invigorating and FUN! He would love to be the campus mascot-perhaps you will see him roaming around campus in the future!
He says, “Take time to study & prepare, use services such as the Tutoring Center and develop your study habits.” DJ’s advice to students is to enjoy college and study hard. “It is important to find a balance between relaxing and planning for your classes.”
Good advice DJ!