Our Futures, Our Voices: Students Leading at the Capitol captures student leaders from across Washington State putting their training into practice during Communities for Our Colleges’ recent MLK Action Day at the state legislature. After months of organizing, preparation, and leadership development, students stepped into the halls of power to advocate directly with lawmakers onContinue reading “Our Futures, Our Voices: Students Leading at the Capitol”
Author Archives: ourcolleges_admin
Student Story: Sally Sanchez
As a mother of three and a returning student, I came back to Yakima Valley College because I wanted to finish my education and get into the workforce. I chose community college because it feels more accessible and supportive than a university. This is only my second quarter here, but already I’ve seen how importantContinue reading “Student Story: Sally Sanchez”
Student Story: Debora Pereira
My name is Débora Pereira. I was born in Santiago, Chile, in 1986. Four years ago, after waiting sixteen years for a residency visa, my family and I finally moved to the United States. I’m married, I have three children, and since 2022, Everett Community College has become a central part of this new chapterContinue reading “Student Story: Debora Pereira”
Student Story: Sougou Tojima
I was born in Japan, but I’ve grown up here in Washington, where I’m now in high school. I love staying active — volleyball, skiing, and even playing mahjong with friends — but I also spend a lot of time thinking about my future. I want to study computer science and eventually work in tech,Continue reading “Student Story: Sougou Tojima”
Student Story: Isai Sanchez
After serving in the military and working at the post office, I came to Yakima Valley College to build a better career for my future. Like many veterans, I joined the military in part to earn VA education benefits. Those benefits now cover my tuition, but even so, I see every day how difficult itContinue reading “Student Story: Isai Sanchez”
Student Story: Maira Arteaga Toscano
Born in Oakland, California, and raised for many years in Colima, Mexico, Maria Arteaga Toscano returned to the United States determined to build a better future. When she arrived in Pasco, she took whatever work she could find—fast food jobs and fieldwork—before landing a position at an apple packing plant. The environment there was difficultContinue reading “Student Story: Maira Arteaga Toscano”
Student Story: J Jacoby
I’m a student at UW Bothell, majoring in elementary education and studying sign language. I transferred here last winter after earning my associate’s degree at Edmonds College, where I started through Running Start in high school. I really enjoyed Edmonds — the environment, the people, and the chance to take college-level classes early. Now, IContinue reading “Student Story: J Jacoby”
Student Story: Dayana Antonio
As a 22-year-old mother of a toddler, I never imagined I would be in college. At first, I didn’t see higher education as necessary, but becoming a mom changed everything. My son motivated me to return to school so I could create a better future for both of us. Now in my second year atContinue reading “Student Story: Dayana Antonio”
Student Story: Gaby Weble
I grew up without my parents and spent most of my life moving from house to house. My grandparents raised me, and by the time I turned eighteen, I moved into my own place and started paying for everything myself. I’ve been working since I was fourteen, and I’m a first-generation college student trying toContinue reading “Student Story: Gaby Weble”
Student Story: Yazad Hiloowalla
As a high school student, most of my life right now revolves around learning and creating. I’m heavily involved in extracurriculars like TSA, FBLA, Game Jams, and Hackathons—any space where I can code, build applications, or challenge myself with new ideas. Technology is something I genuinely enjoy, and I’m already thinking ahead about what itContinue reading “Student Story: Yazad Hiloowalla”