First-Generation Strong and Determined to Succeed

Compiled and edited by Dina Doolen, Marketing, Communications and Strategic Outreach

Meet four graduates from Pima’s Class of 2026, all first-generation college students. Each of them has a unique story of how they got started, what they learned and where they’re going next.

Melissa G

Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Tucson, AZ

Melissa is a first-generation college student and parent, and took her classes through PimaOnline. She will be attending Arizona State University. Here is her story.

Why did you choose to attend Pima?
I opted for Pima because it was budget-friendly and equipped me with all the necessary resources to pursue a degree.

What was your program of study, and why did you select it?
Logistics and Supply Chain Management is my chosen degree because the field offers a stable job market. I want to ensure that I can provide for my family for the long term.

What was your favorite Pima student perk?
Having Amazon Student Prime

How has your time at Pima shaped you — academically, personally or professionally?
It has molded me in such a way that I am now more confident in my academic pursuits. I have also developed excellent time-management skills, which I feel I can apply in various aspects of my life.

As a Pima graduate, what are you most proud of?
Being the first in my family to earn a degree, I aspire to be an inspiration to others. I believe it’s possible to overcome obstacles and achieve your dreams, even when it feels like you’re stuck under a rock.

What's your best “Pima Pro Tip” for a new student just starting out here?
Get your assignments done as soon as possible.

In a few sentences, what's your Pima story you'd like to share with the world?
I am a full-time mom with a full-time job, having come from humble beginnings and endured hardships that no one else should have to face at such a young age. I will continue to strive for greater heights and, hopefully, leave a lasting legacy for my children and their children.

Sandra A.

Information Technology and Cybersecurity
Accra, Ghana

Sandra is a first-generation college student-parent who will be graduating with honors. Here is her story.

Why did you choose to attend Pima?
I chose to attend Pima because it’s close to home, affordable and offers flexible class options that fit my schedule.

What was your program of study, and why did you select it?
My program of study is Networking and Cyber Defense. I chose it because I’m passionate about technology and interested in how networks function and stay secure. With the rise in cyber threats, I want to build the skills needed to protect systems and pursue a career in cybersecurity.

What stood out most about your experience in your program?
What stood out most about my experience in the program was the hands-on learning and how practical it was. I gained real-world skills in networking and cyber defense, and it really helped me build confidence in my ability to solve technical problems.

How has your time at Pima shaped you — academically, personally, or professionally?
At Pima Community College, I didn’t just gain knowledge I gained confidence, direction and the skills to succeed in my future career. This journey shaped me into someone ready for what’s next.
As a Pima graduate, what are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of pushing through challenges and staying committed to my goals at Pima Community College. Every late night and obstacle shaped me into someone stronger and more determined.

What do you plan to do after you graduate?
After graduating, I plan to pursue a career in networking and cybersecurity, where I can apply my skills to protect systems and solve real-world technology challenges.

What's your best "Pima Pro Tip" for a new student just starting out here?
My best pro tip for new students at Pima is to stay organized and don’t wait until the last minute. Use your resources – tutors, professors and labs. They really make a difference.

In a few sentences, what's your Pima story you'd like to share with the world?
My time at Pima Community College taught me that success comes from consistency and perseverance. Every challenge I faced helped me grow stronger, and every lesson prepared me for what’s next.

Elmer P.

[AGEC for Transfer]
Tucson, AZ

Elmer is a sailor in the U.S. Navy and spent much of his time at Pima deployed at sea.

Why did you choose to attend Pima?
I choose to attend Pima because I have always heard about their programs and how it is a good start in your college career with smaller classes, great staff and I did feel valued while being here at Pima.

What was your program of study, and why did you select it?
I choose the AGEC due to my circumstances of being active duty and wanting to transfer immediately after completing Pima to the UofA.

What stood out most about your experience in your program?
What stood out to me the most while at Pima is that you are a priority. Seek help and ask questions. You are destined to succeed. The staff are very caring and they have helped me meet deadlines when I was out to sea months at a time.

What was your favorite Pima student perk?
The library is my favorite.

How has your time at Pima shaped you — academically, personally or professionally?
My time at Pima has shaped me to understand how college works and I have definitely grown since I have started. I noticed I am more on time with my assignments and have stopped procrastinating.

As a Pima graduate, what are you most proud of?
I am proud to be a part of this community of latinx who are first-generation college graduates. I don’t have a BA, but it is a start and thats all that matters.

What do you plan to do after you graduate?
My plan after graduation is to continue my studies at the UofA and start on my BA in criminal justice to eventually be able to go to law school and pursue a career as a lawyer in the Navy.

What's your best “Pima Pro Tip” for a new student just starting out here?
Take notes and take the classes one day at a time. This will make your life a lot easier. Take this advice from someone who went on a deployment across the world and did four courses at the same time.

In a few sentences, what's your Pima story you’d like to share with the world?
I am a husband, a son and an active duty sailor. I joined Pima start my college education. I am a first-generation college graduate from parents who never even finished high school. Their sacrifice has shaped me into working harder every day so I could provide the world for my kids.

Ana C. Ortiz

Business Administration
Caborca, Sonora, Mexico

Ana is a first-generation college student who already has transferred to The University of Arizona. Here is her story.

Why did you choose to attend Pima?
It’s a local community college that provides excellent options to grow.

What was your program of study, and why did you select it?
Business Administration, because I’ve always been interested in how to properly manage a business, thinking this can give me an opportunity to become an entrepreneur.

What stood out most about your experience in your program?
How easily is to make friends at Pima, no matter the program.

What do you plan to do after you graduate?
I have already transferred to the University of Arizona.

What's your best "Pima Pro Tip" for a new student just starting out here?
Make as many friends as you can. They don't only help you in class, but can give you tips for local things to do.

In a few sentences, what's your Pima story you'd like to share with the world?
I've met great people here willing to help, such as friends and professors. The environment feels welcoming.