Career Focus - Winter/Spring 2024

WINTER/SPRING 2024 • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2

IS COLLEGE WORTH IT? THESE DVC STUDENTS SAY YES, AND HERE’S WHY

FUELING SUCCESS ESO VENTURES AND DVC ENTREPRENEURSHIP CLASSES EMPOWER STUDENTS

DISCOVER, CONNECT,

SUCCEED

UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL AT DVC STUDENT CENTERS

BREAKING BARRIERS, INSPIRING POTENTIAL DVC SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS EMPOWER OTHERS

REGISTER NOW SPRING CLASSES

Spring Classes Begin January 22, 2024

High-quality instruction.

Flexible, convenient and affordable.

Access our fall schedule of classes at www.dvc.edu/schedule

• Degree and certificate programs taught by outstanding instructors • Career education to prepare for immediate employment and advancement • Day, evening, and hybrid classes available in-person and online • Campuses in Pleasant Hill and San Ramon

Pleasant Hill Campus: 321 Golf Club Road Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 925-685-1230

San Ramon Campus: 1690 Watermill Road San Ramon, CA 94582 925-866-1822

In This Issue Questions about the Diablo Valley College programs and services described in this publication can be directed to DVC Workforce Development Office at 925-969-2267. For information about enrolling at DVC call Welcome Services at (925) 969-2106.

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Publisher...................................... Diablo Valley College Creative director.................................... Brandy Howard Writer...................................................... Jennifer Finetti Photo editor............................................. Ryan Blauvelt Photography......................................Denis Perez-Bravo Visit us at: www.dvc.edu Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board: John E. Márquez, Ward I Dr. Judy Walters, Ward II Rebecca Barrett, Ward III Andy Li, Ward IV Fernando Sandoval, Ward V Ivan Hernandez, Student Trustee Interim Chancellor: Mojdeh Mehdizadeh CareerFocus is published periodically by Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523.

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All rights reserved. No part of the material printed may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage retrieval system without the permission of the publisher.

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This project was funded fully or in part by the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V) and Strong Workforce Program, awarded to Diablo Valley College and administered by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office.

It is the policy of the Contra Costa Community College District and Diablo Valley College to provide an educational and employment environment in which no person shall be unlawfully subject to discrimination on the basis of ethnic group identification, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, race, color, medical condition, ancestry, marital status or physical or mental disability or based on association with a person or group with one of more of these actual or perceived characteristics. This holds true for all students who are interested in participating in educational programs and/or extracurricular activities. Unlawful harassment, discrimination or denial of access of any employee/student with regard to ethnic group identification, national origin, religion, age, sex, race, color, ancestry, sexual orientation, or physical or mental disability is strictly prohibited. The lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the College’s education programs. Inquiries regarding compliance and/or grievance procedures and requests for the elevation and addition of sports may be directed to the Diablo Valley College Vice President of Student Services (504, Title IX, Sexual Harassment; Title VI Coordinator and EEOC Officer) at 925-969-2005. © 2024 Diablo Valley College

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Is College Worth it?

These DVC Students Say Yes, and Here’s Why

Fueling Success ESO Ventures and DVC Entrepreneurship Classes Empower Students with Confidence, Competence, and Capital

Discover, Connect, Succeed Unleash Your Potential at DVC Student Centers

Breaking Barriers,Inspiring Potential DVC Special Education Students Empower Others CAREERFOCUS I WINTER/SPRING 2024 I 1

Is College

Worth it?

These DVC Students Say Yes, and Here’s Why

Cullen Guydon-Off

W

hen Cullen Guydon-Off arrived at DVC, he felt he really didn’t understand what it meant to be a student.

“I didn’t have a positive experience in high school and my environment felt like a dead end. I’m glad I was able to find DVC and follow a path to what would be best for my future,” said Guydon-Off. Guydon-Off was interested not only in academics, but also his overall college experience.

“Counseling and academic advising became an entryway to see the options you have to get involved on campus. It also helped me plan my transfer path,” said Guydon-Off. The support Guydon-Off received inspired him to help other students have a more positive experience, leading him to become a student ambassador for DVC. “I helped students apply and register for classes. In addition to working with students who recently completed high

2 I WINTER/SPRING 2024 I CAREERFOCUS

school, I also helped adults who were returning to college or starting college for the first time.

I assisted students who spoke a language other than English.

I helped mothers with children, adults wanting a career change, and unhoused people seeking opportunity. I experienced the diversity of the student body, as well as the sacrifices people made to be able to enroll in college,” said Guydon-Off. Guydon-Off is aware that the cost of college can be daunting for students and families, but he feels that DVC offers an affordable solution that can really make a difference.

“DVC saved me money, especially at the beginning when I was unsure of my future career. DVC has really been worthwhile for my personal growth and education.

I had to go through a lot to get to the point where college finally clicked for me and that was all thanks to my professors and mentors at DVC,” said Guydon-Off. After graduating from DVC with an associate in arts in sociology, Guydon-Off transferred to UC

Davis, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 2022.

“When I transferred, I felt more prepared and ready to take-on a university-level curriculum. DVC’s value really shined in that respect, and I credit the relationships I built at DVC for helping me find my love for knowledge as well as my intellectual curiosity,” said Guydon-Off. Guydon-Off currently works for a litigation support company

while studying for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). He is excited to get closer to his goal of becoming a lawyer.

“I loved my time at DVC and couldn’t have asked for a better school to start my journey. I developed better communication skills as well as built empathy for others. This helped set the foundation for the values I hold strong as I look toward my career in law,” said Guydon-Off.

Higher education has a meaningful impact on income According to the U.S. Census, Americans with an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree earn a significantly higher annual salary as compared to Americans with a high school diploma. Not all careers require a degree, but these numbers are still quite significant: $80,478

$39,976

High School Diploma / GED

$48,555

$51,161

Some College

Associate’s Degree

Bachelor’s Degree

DIABLO VALLEY COLLEGE I dvc.edu

Guydon-Off is grateful that he chose a more affordable path to college by starting at DVC. But like many students today, he wondered if the cost of higher education would be worthwhile.

Is a college education worth the cost?

Recent media reports have shown that many Americans wonder if a college degree provides a significant return on the cost of investment.

Despite the headlines, a 2022 study conducted by New America found that most Americans (75 percent) feel a college degree is worthwhile.

Nearly two-thirds (64 percent) say that a college degree can ensure financial security.

The overwhelming majority see the value of community colleges, with 85 percent stating that twoyear institutions contribute to a strong workforce.

Most respondents (81 percent) feel that community colleges are worth the cost.

A smart start for a long-term career plan “Prior to enrolling at DVC, I knew I wanted a career in the medical

field, but I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted to do. My high school suggested that I start at DVC,” said Alexandra “Alley” Sooksumphon.

Soon after arriving at DVC, Sooksumphon visited the DVC counseling office.

“After meeting with a few counselors, I felt extremely confident, excited, and eager to jump-start my career. Their support gave me so much clarity,” said Sooksumphon.

Sooksumphon majored in allied health while pursuing her prerequisites for nursing programs. She graduated from DVC in May 2022.

“This degree landed me my first job in a clinical setting! Six months later, I was accepted into the University of San Francisco’s Veterans Affairs Nursing Academic Partnership (VANAP) nursing program,” said Sooksumphon.

Sooksumphon was born and raised in the East Bay to parents who migrated from Laos at a young age.

She credits her parents for her drive and desire for a college education.

Still, she was concerned about the cost of college and wondered if it would be worthwhile.

“The value of attending college varies depending on one’s goals and unique circumstances. The great news is that DVC offers numerous pathways including transfer to a university, certificates, or associate degrees.

You really can find your path by starting here.”

Tedmund Munoz, DVC counseling faculty

“Attending college felt like a financial sacrifice. I was always so thankful for the DVC financial aid office, counselors, and student services who helped when it came to grants, scholarships, and other assistance. They make you feel like they are truly rooting for you,” said Sooksumphon.

The true value of college encompasses more than academics “The value of attending college varies depending on one’s goals and unique circumstances. The great news is that DVC offers numerous pathways including transfer to a university, certificates, or associate degrees. You really can find your path by starting here,” said Tedmund Munoz, counseling faculty at DVC. Munoz feels it important that students understand that the value of college extends beyond a quality academic program.

“Students acquire vital soft skills that employers are looking for such as communication, critical thinking, teamwork, adaptability, and work ethic. They also gain an appreciation for diversity and the ability to bridge understanding between different perspectives.

DVC is also committed to creating internships and job opportunities for students and alumni. The networking opportunities are substantial, an invaluable benefit of higher education,” said Munoz.

Alley Sooksumphon

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Munoz understands that many students are concerned about the cost of college; however, DVC and other California Community Colleges offer some of the most affordable higher education in the country at only $46 per unit. Additionally, DVC offers several free tuition programs:

California College Promise Grant Awarded based on financial need Full or part-time enrollment Student must be a CA resident or qualify for an in-state residency exemption Full Time Free Tuition Award Up to two years eligibility Full-time enrollment Must be a CA resident or qualify for an in-state residency exemption CalVet Fee Waiver Awarded to eligible veteran dependents Contact your county veterans services office to obtain an eligibility award code letter and submit to our financial aid office for processing “Even for students who are not eligible for free tuition, DVC offers a significantly lower tuition cost compared to the UC and CSU systems. Moreover, grants, scholarships, work-study and other types of financial aid are available as additional funding options,” said Munoz.

Munoz is proud of the commitment shared by the DVC faculty, administration and staff.

“We say that big futures start at DVC. It’s not just a tagline; it’s our belief and our promise to students.

We’re here to support your journey and ensure your dreams of a brighter future become a reality,” said Munoz.

To find out more, visit www.dvc.edu/counseling.

CAREERFOCUS I WINTER/SPRING 2024 I 3

Fueling Success ESO Ventures and DVC Entrepreneurship Classes Empower Students with Confidence, Competence, and Capital

“W

hen I was working my very first job in the insurance industry, I got a devastating call from my mom. She told me she had cancer,” said Johanna Arroliga, insurance/real estate agent owner of XIX Insurance Group Services.

“Immediately life changed for me.

As a 25-year-old, I became my mom’s caregiver while working full time. I needed to work to help with the cost of treatment, but I also needed to be physically present to help my mom fight cancer,” said Arroliga.

When her mother passed, Arroliga resented not being able to do more for her. She felt frustrated that she had to ask her manager for time off to take her to chemotherapy. She was even more upset that she had to request time off to attend the funeral.

“I vowed to never work for someone again,” said Arroliga.

The freedom to grow Arroliga knew she wanted to start her own business. She credits the community college system for preparing her and her husband for their entrepreneurship journey.

She graduated from Contra Costa College (DVC’s sister college, CCC) with three associate degrees, as well as her insurance 4 I WINTER/SPRING 2024 I CAREERFOCUS

Johanna Arroliga

“As a first-generation business owner, starting my business felt like I chose to build a plane on my way down AFTER jumping off the cliff. ESO Ventures and the DVC entrepreneurship class came along at a time for me when I was seeking help with my plane.”

Johanna Arroliga

and real estate licenses. She launched her business in 2018.

More recently, she completed an entrepreneur class at DVC, and is in the process of earning a bachelor’s degree at UC Berkeley.

“By 2023, my business had survived wildfires, COVID, and other challenges. The office grew enough for my husband to leave his stable job of nine years to get licensed and work with me. He also earned an associate degree from CCC. The set of skills we acquired for free through the community college system

has been an integral part of our journey,” said Arroliga.

Arroliga initially started the business only selling insurance under Johanna Arroliga Farmers Insurance Agency. She later launched XIX Insurance Group Services.

“As a bi-lingual insurance agent, I offer insurance, Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) services, notary services, fingerprinting, real estate, and business formation services.

I’m passionate about making entrepreneurship accessible by

educating my customers while also strengthening my financial literacy skills,” said Arroliga.

Arroliga’s desire to grow her own knowledge and skill led her to participate in a business incubator program specifically designed to support and lift Black and Brown entrepreneurs. In 2022, the Bay Area Community College Consortium (BACCC) partnered with ESO Ventures to bring the incubator to six local community colleges, including DVC and CCC. “The collaboration enables underserved populations to access quality, culturally relevant entrepreneurship training free of charge. It also provides certificate opportunities for continued growth, and aligns entrepreneurs with other community resources,” said Derene Allen Hinchliff, business administration faculty and lead for the DVC ESO Ventures Incubator Program.

“As a first-generation business owner, starting my business felt like I chose to build a plane on DIABLO VALLEY COLLEGE I dvc.edu

my way down AFTER jumping off the cliff. ESO Ventures and the DVC entrepreneurship class came along at a time for me when I was seeking help with my plane.

I wanted to fly, to soar higher. I was excited to find that there was an opportunity for people like me to get help with tools, resources, coaching, and capital,” said Arroliga.

“The ESO Ventures incubator program provides participants with the confidence, competence, and capital to take their earlystage business idea to the next level through a 10-module online program with business coaching that culminates in a summit where the community is invited,” said Hinchliff.

Arroliga is grateful to the ESO Ventures program and has referred others to enroll.

“They are providing people in underserved and overlooked communities with so many resources and opportunities. It motivates me to set plans into action and do more to contribute to the community as well. What they are doing is changing and impacting lives,” said Arroliga.

To learn more, visit www.eso-ventures.com/ diablovalley.

Launch or Grow Your Own Business with a Certificate or Degree in Entrepreneurship Degrees Associate in arts – music industry entrepreneurship Associate in science – accounting Associate in science – business Associate in science – business administration for transfer 2.0 Associate in science – professional and technical workplace skills Certificates of achievement Advanced Accounting Advanced General Business Arboriculture Entrepreneurship Bookkeeping

Business - Transfer Cannabis Studies Digital Marketing General Accounting General Business Landscape Design Entrepreneurship Management and Leadership Studies Music Industry Entrepreneurship Nursery and Greenhouse Entrepreneurship Office Professional - Business Information Worker

Personal Training Entrepreneurship Professional and Technical Workplace Skills Real Estate Small Business Management/ Entrepreneurship Certificates of accomplishment Cannabis Entrepreneurship Food Truck Entrepreneurship Management and Leadership Studies Real Estate Salesperson Small Business Management/ Entrepreneurship

Business Marketing

Entrepreneurship at DVC DVC offers a wide selection of highquality business management and business entrepreneurship courses and programs throughout the year.

Multiple degree and certificate offerings are available with focus areas in accounting, management, marketing, and real estate.

“DVC recently created a dedicated business entrepreneurship program

to focus on helping students achieve their educational goals in starting and growing new businesses. Several disciplines now have entrepreneurshiprelated offerings including culinary arts, horticulture, kinesiology, and music industry studies, so that students can learn skills enabling them to be more successful in launching their own business,” said Mariam Worsham, business administration faculty at DVC.

“In addition to for-credit courses, DVC has many other entrepreneurship initiatives for students to learn more, including an annual Piranha PoolTM Pitch Competition where students pitch their ideas to judges for cash prizes. We also offer biweekly workshops and speakers under the “Business Beyond the Classroom” as well as the Entrepreneur in You” video series, Career Launchpad classes, and of course the entrepreneurship class focused on Black and Brown entrepreneurs as part of our jointventure with ESO Ventures,” said Worsham.

Johanna Arroliga strongly encourages students and community members to consider launching their own business.

“My favorite part about being an entrepreneur is having ownership of my time. I can make the money I need to build wealth, while also having the flexibility to choose what I put my energy towards and do the things that I care about,” said Arroliga.

To find out more about the entrepreneurship program at DVC, visit www.dvc.edu/management (business).

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CAREERFOCUS I WINTER/SPRING 2024 I 5

Jose Gonzalez

plans to transfer to San Jose State University to earn her bachelor’s degree and teaching credential.

She also works at the academic support center (ASC) and library on the San Ramon campus.

“The student centers offer tutoring on many subjects, including math, English, computer science, chemistry, and more.

You can get help with homework, lecture materials, and research from peers who are qualified to tutor other students. They are incredibly helpful, and some classes even offer extra credit for getting tutored,” said Pham.

Discover,Connect,

Succeed Unleash Your Potential at DVC Student Centers

I

n March 2023, Jose Gonzalez was let go from his job because he needed shoulder surgery.

After the surgery, he knew there would be a long road to recovery.

“I felt stagnant, impatient, and sad at not being able to do everyday things that I could do before. I went back to college to learn, grow and shake those feelings,” said Gonzalez.

small, and save money.’ I want to go so far into my learning that I can manage my own business and teach others,” said Gonzalez.

Gonzalez spends a lot of time in the Business, Computer Science and Culinary Student Center.

He says it was the free snacks that attracted him, but the opportunities available within the center kept him coming back.

Support and services that lead to success “I’m an international student from Vietnam, and I would like to teach English to young kids. I came to the U.S about a year ago so that I could study in an Englishspeaking country,” said Ngan Pham, an elementary education major at DVC. Pham chose DVC not only due to its affordability, but also because she discovered that DVC students have a high rate of transfer success. Pham currently attends classes at DVC San Ramon and

“I met with professors for office hours in the centers, and have also received tutoring and advice,” said Jideonwo.

Jideonwo plans to transfer to obtain a bachelor’s degree. Like Gonzalez, he has attended several workshops in the center, primarily focusing on preparing for transfer.

“The student centers are very accessible and really help give the students everything they need to be successful at DVC. They are a great place to learn, socialize, and improve yourself,” said Jideonwo.

“The center has become a home to me and my classmates, where we can finish a tough assignment or just sit and talk,” said Gonzalez.

Gonzalez is majoring in business at DVC and hopes to develop the skills needed to run his own business.

The student centers also offer workshops and guest speakers.

Gonzalez has attended a number of these events.

“Growing up, my family was not financially educated. My mother and father were immigrants. They raised us with love and kindness, but they were not financially literate other than ‘work hard, live

“I’ve attended workshops about financial literacy, as well as presentations from groups such as the Future Business Leaders of America. The events are all beneficial to college students,

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focusing on networking, career planning, and transfer,” said Gonzalez.

Ebube Jideonwo was born and raised in Nigeria and came to the United States to study chemical engineering. During his time at DVC, Jideonwo visited several different student centers, but spent the most time in the Science and Health Student Center and the Math and Engineering Student Center.

Ngan Pham (right) tutors a student in the Academic Support Center (ASC)

DIABLO VALLEY COLLEGE I dvc.edu

Visit DVC student centers for free tutoring, snacks and more!

DVC provides free tutoring, counseling, and support in our Student Centers! Visiting the center in your Interest Area or Learning Community is a great way to get support from instructors, counselors, and staff who specialize in your program. Available services include: Tutoring (on campus and online) Help with Canvas, the college’s online learning platform Computer access & free printing Study space

Connection to student services Instructor office hours Snacks and granola bars Tutoring is also available to specialized communities in other locations: PUMA Center – for students in Puente, Umoja, and MESA Student Veterans Resource Center (SVRC) – for student veterans CARE/EOPS Office – for EOPS students

Drop-in counseling Career workshops/support

Ebube Jideonwo

Library liaison

Finding her path Sydney Alexander came to DVC as a first-generation college student. She had hoped to go directly to a fouryear university after high school but realized that DVC offered a more affordable start.

“While at DVC, I changed my major five times, something I wouldn’t have felt free to do if I were at a fouryear university,” said Alexander.

Alexander eventually chose to major in communications and was a member of the DVC speech and debate team. She also worked as a tutor, supporting other students enrolled in communications classes.

“Through my experience as a tutor, I found not only my love for communications as a subject, but also discovered my love for helping people work through different challenges,” said Alexander.

After graduating from DVC with her associate in arts in communications, Alexander transferred to California State University, East Bay to obtain her bachelor of arts. She continued supporting DVC students through online tutoring, and then became a program assistant in the ASC. She also earned a master of science in digital audience strategy from Arizona State University. This led Alexander to take on an exciting new role at DVC – as a member of the communications faculty. dvc.edu I DIABLO VALLEY COLLEGE

“Because it wasn’t all that long ago that I was a DVC student, I understand many of the struggles that students have gone through,” said Alexander.

Alexander encourages students to access tutoring and other services available through the student centers.

“Each student center is like a mini hub for resources. You can ask any question about anything on campus and someone in the center will help you find the resources or answer the question,” said Alexander.

Student centers focused on career interests California Community Colleges developed a common system that helps students find their academic path during their time in college – this system is called Guided Pathways.

“As part of the transition to Guided Pathways, DVC reorganized into Interest Areas, which allows students to more easily determine their college and career goals,” said Katy Agnost, English professor and guided pathways faculty lead.

Following the success of the DVC Pleasant Hill and DVC San Ramon Academic Support Centers (ASC), as well as the PUMA Center and Student Veterans Resource Center (SVRC), DVC developed five

Workshops and guest speakers

additional student centers that are organized around DVC’s five career interest areas: Arts, Communication and Language Business, Computer Science and Culinary Math and Engineering Science and Health

For more information,visit www.dvc.edu/studentcenters.

Agnost reports that the student centers have already shown a great deal of success with students across all interest areas.

“The student centers provide a level of care, community, and support that goes beyond anything we have created in the past, and with only one full year of operation, we are already seeing tremendous success,” said Agnost.

Social Sciences Interest areas help students to better associate their interests and passions with related academic paths and career tracks.

“No matter what the student’s path, they can find a space that is designed for them. The centers create a community of students, connecting them to services they need to be successful,” said Agnost.

Agnost feels that one key aspect of the student center philosophy is the “warm handoff.”

“Rather than telling students where they can find support, we walk students to where they need to go and personally connect them with the staff associated with the service they need - financial aid, admissions and records, career services, and more,” said Agnost.

Sydney Alexander

For more information, visit www.dvc.edu/studentcenters.

CAREERFOCUS I WINTER/SPRING 2024 I 7

Breaking Barriers, Inspiring Potential DVC Special Education Students Empower Others

“I

enrolled at DVC to save money as well as take time to figure out what I wanted to do, gain more experience and work on my mental health,” said Hawthorne “Zack” Girodie, who graduated from DVC in 2023.

Girodie earned his associate in arts in early childhood education as well as a certificate of achievement in special education fundamentals.

“The special education program prepares students for a rewarding career working with children and adults with special needs. Students learn teaching strategies for the special education paraprofessional, study psychology and child development, and gain practical work experience,” said Carrie Million, who focuses on assistive technology and special education at DVC as a member of the Disability Support Services (DSS) faculty.

Girodie really enjoyed his time at DVC and felt that the special ed program was both fascinating and fun.

“I loved the different styles of assignments. The program was practical and accessible. The time I was able to spend with professors, advisors, and classmates was worthwhile,” said Girodie.

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Zack Girodie

Girodie transferred to San Jose State University to earn both a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree, as well as a teaching credential and special education credential. He feels that DVC provided the right start for his academic goals.

“I always recommend DVC. It’s perfect for students planning to transfer. The classes required for this major are useful and will help when getting a job,” said Girodie.

DVC special education program leads to a meaningful career The special education program equips students to work with people with disabilities in a variety of educational and rehabilitation settings.

“Graduates are qualified to work as special education paraprofessionals in the K-12 educational setting, as well as other entry-level jobs in adult day programs and care centers,” said Million.

Degrees and certificates Associate in arts - special education paraeducator/ instructional assistant

Certificate of achievement special education paraeducator/ instructional assistant Certificate of achievement special education fundamentals Students earning the associate degree take part in either an internship or paid work experience. DVC is also part of a regional teacher preparation pipeline that connects students to opportunities.

“After enrolling at DVC, I worked at after-school programs, caregiving/respite care, and even worked at the San Ramon Valley Unified School District as a paraeducator my last year! I’m currently working as a respite worker through 24/7 Nightingale as well as 24-hour Home Care,” said Girodie.

Job outlook “The overall outlook for jobs in special education is strong. Many school districts across California are looking for qualified special education professionals. Some are even offering significant hiring bonuses,” said Million.

To find out more, visit www.dvc.edu/ special-education.

Bay Area Job Outlook Special Education Teachers, Elementary School Average Starting Wage: $69,170 Special Education Teachers, Middle School Average Starting Wage: $109, 760 Special Education Teachers, High School Average Starting Wage: $94,890 Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - May 2021

Connection to DVC disability support services Students enrolled in the special education program may also gain work experience within the DVC disability support services (DSS) office. Opportunities include working as a lab assistant in the High Tech Center (HTC). The HTC offers adaptive computer and software technologies that support students registered with DSS. Students accessing DSS services may also discover their own career interest in working within the field of special education.

DIABLO VALLEY COLLEGE I dvc.edu

“I registered for DSS support during my first year of college. It was easy to sign up and learn about options for accommodations. Any time I interacted with a DSS employee, I was treated with respect and care,” said Girodie.

Reaching her full potential at DVC “Growing up, I wanted to continue my education, even though my sixthgrade teacher said that if I graduated high school, I would flip hamburgers and push shopping carts. My parents and 12th-grade English teacher believed I should attend college to accomplish my dream,” said Lilian Itzel Benitez, who began her studies in early childhood education and special education at DVC. Benitez overcame many challenges and barriers to pursue her passion and achieve a level of success that some thought would not be possible.

“I was diagnosed with a learning disability, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other mental health issues. Some of the accommodations I received through DSS were alternative media services, testing accommodations, and notetaking accommodations,” said Benitez.

Benitez graduated from DVC in 2020, having associate in

arts degrees in early childhood education and special education paraeducator/instructional assistant, as well as several certificates in early childhood education. She also gained valuable work experience.

“I worked in the HTC supporting students registered with DSS. Students would come in to ask for help because they were struggling.

We would guide them to the appropriate resources, and reassure them that they were in great hands,” said Benitez.

Benitez transferred to San Francisco State University to obtain her bachelor’s degree. She is now pursuing an online master of arts in assistive technology and human services at California State University, Northridge. She also returned to DVC as an instructional assistant in the HTC to give back to DSS staff and students.

“When I meet students, I speak with them not only as a former student, but also as a former recipient of disability support services. I let them know that the help we provide will benefit them and contribute to their success,” said Benitez.

Supporting others with compassionate understanding Jaime Tomasello found her joy and passion for helping others through

Jaime Tomasello

her own unique experience as a legally blind student.

“Before I enrolled at DVC, I attended the California School for the Blind and completed some courses at Ohlone College. Although I had initially been interested in a culinary career, I found my interests had changed. I decided to become a special educator for the blind and teach assistive technology and art,” said Tomasello.

Tomasello graduated from DVC with associate in arts degrees in liberal arts, special education and paraprofessional studies, and California State University (CSU) transfer studies. She transferred to

Saint Mary’s College of California where she earned a bachelor of arts degree. Like Lilian Benitez, Tomasello is also enrolled in the master of arts in assistive technology in human services program at California State University, Northridge.

“When I was a DVC student, I accessed disability support services for both my physical disability as well as my learning disability. I love that the HTC is now in the new student services center building.

We are more visible and accessible to students who would benefit from DSS services,” said Tomasello.

Continued on next page

Disability Support Services Ensures Equal Access to Resources and Opportunities DVC disability support services (DSS) provides academic support and accommodations to students with learning differences, as well as students with physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities. DSS also often works with student veterans to provide academic support in conjunction with the services available within the Student Veterans Resource Center (SVRC).

“Our goal is to allow students equal access to the opportunities and resources available at DVC,” said David Hagerty, the manager of disability support services at DVC. Options may include: Extended time for exams and quizzes Testing in a distraction-reduced setting Assistance with note taking, including recording and annotation tools Alternate media, which involves converting written text into other formats, such as audio or Braille Disability counseling Training on organization, time management, and prioritization Transportation on campus

Lilian Benitez (right) with a DVC student

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American Sign Language (ASL) and captioning

CAREERFOCUS I WINTER/SPRING 2024 I 9

Breaking Barriers, Inspiring Potential Continued from previous page Tomasello works as an instructional assistant in the HTC. She assists students with a broad range of disabilities, providing the support they need to be successful in meeting their academic and career goals.

“Our philosophy is to show all students respect, kindness, and grace. Students with disabilities should be treated with equity and compassion,” said Tomasello.

To learn more, visit www.dvc.edu/dss.

Don’t Let ADHD Keep You From Pursuing Your Dreams A 2019 study focusing on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) found that between 2007 and 2016, there has been a 43% increase in adults with newly diagnosed ADHD. This is one of the many disabilities that DVC’s DSS team can support you with. If you are an adult learner with ADHD, or if you are simply an adult learner juggling multiple responsibilities, DVC can help you to be successful.

Here are some strategies that can help:

How to enroll in DSS STEP 1 Submit the DSS

Application for Services STEP 2 Provide documentation

of your disability STEP 3 Meet with a DSS

counselor To find out more, visit www.dvc.edu/dss.

Stay organized and manage your time: It can be challenging to balance family obligations and/or a job while in school. An online calendar or day planner is key to staying on top of responsibilities.

Utilize DVC student centers: DVC offers seven student centers where you can get free assistance with registering for classes, access drop-in counseling, and more. Whatever questions you may have, staff will be able to connect you with the right service or program to meet your needs.

Access professor office hours: Your instructors are an outstanding resource. They are happy to help you understand the course material and will have tips and advice to support you as you prepare for exams.

Contact Disability Support Services (DSS): If you feel you need academic support or accommodations related to learning differences or a disability, reach out to DSS to find out about your options.

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