Student Stories
Shayna WiseDestination: | Globetrotting student Shayna Wise is all about expanding her horizons, which is something she’s been able to accomplish thanks to HCC’s STARTALK program. STARTALK is a summer language program for high school students, and covers the tuition costs for students to learn Mandarin or Arabic. The program proved to be a perfect fit for Shayna, who is an international studies major and Rouse Scholar. “STARTALK and HCC have provided me with so many opportunities” she says. “I’m never just a number and everyone goes the extra mile to make me feel special.” Shayna hopes to transfer to George Washington, American or Georgetown University. Ultimately, she wants to put her knowledge of foreign languages to use with a leading international charity or humanitarian organization. |
 Olinda GuerreroDestination: Math Teacher Path: Associate of Arts in Teaching Program | Olinda Guerrero loves children and math, so it seemed like a no brainer that she would want to become a teacher. But, when faced with the financial demands and time constraints of the typical teaching degree, Olinda almost decided to give up on teaching entirely. “It was so expensive and, because I was juggling a job along with my education, it was difficult to find time to commute to a university,” says Olinda. That was until Olinda discovered HCC’s sssociate of arts in teaching program, which prepares students to transfer to a four-year institution to earn a bachelor’s degree and teaching certification.In Olinda’s case, after graduating from HCC in 2006, she was able to transfer to Towson University’s elementary education program. But, instead of having to wrangle with the ever increasing beltway commute, Olinda is able to take Towson courses at HCC’s Laurel College Center. “I highly recommend the program,” says Olinda. “The transition has been seamless. I’ve been told exactly what courses to take to receive my degree from Towson.” And, like any good math teacher, Olinda makes sure to focus on the numbers. “Best of all, I’ve saved lots of money.” |
 Ethan MyersDestination: Engineering | Ethan Myers is not your typical high school student. Currently a junior at Cedar Brook Academy, Ethan has been taking college level courses at HCC since his freshman year. He’s certainly made the most out of his time at HCC, serving as president of Phi Theta Kappa and founder of the Engineering Club. He’s even managed to land a competitive summer internship with Applied Physics Lab.Ethan credits his teachers at HCC with helping him find success. “The teachers at HCC are pretty amazing,” he says. “Each teacher has been willing to help me beyond class and they’re always open to any questions I have.” Ethan eventually wants to become an engineer, but has yet to decide where to continue his college education. After he’s graduated from high school, he plans on transferring the credits he’s earned at HCC towards his four-year degree. |
