Alumni students are often not forgotten by those left behind on campus. There is a lingering question of “What are they doing now” that persists for many teachers and classmates about students who have graduated over the years. PawPrint tracked down two alumni students to find out what they have been doing and what future plans are in the works.
Karina Salvatier who was class of 2024 said, “Life is going very good. I am actually working towards getting my AAT in business administration, and I am taking advantage of all the financial and academic opportunities granted to me as a California resident. I am attending my first two years of community college free of the cost of tuition and I’m also working part time at a fast food chain in my city.”
Past high school students often miss the excitement of school events like dances or sports games and having less responsibilities. College is a larger campus with more freedom and less personal interaction. College students need to learn how to work on their academics independently than high school. “Sometimes all that can get overwhelming but I know it will all be worth it at the end,” stated Salvatier.
Destiny Garcia was also a past student who graduated in 2024. She stated, “I’m currently attending Cal State Long Beach, and I am majoring in Liberal Studies and pursuing a bachelor’s degree with a multiple subject credential with concentration on Spanish Bilingual Authorization.”
College life was a new adventure for Garcia. She said, “Settling into college was not easy, but it’s a privilege to be able to work hard to reach my goals here everyday. Sometimes it gets lonely or there are times I just really miss my family, but I know one day it will all be worth it. I’ve learned that not all good things come easy and there are sacrifices to be made. Overall, I have loved my college experience so far. I have met so many driven people, seen so many beautiful places, and have learned so much about myself here.”
For these alumni students and others who graduate, most seem to be in a good spot in life with many pursuing personal goals even if it means moving away from home and being away from their family and friends. Salvatier and Garcia’s main goal after graduation was to pursue their goals and not let any distractions get in the way of that and that is what they are doing. These qualities help them navigate their obstacles and seize opportunities and mainly lead successful fulfilling lives.