Current Student Ambassadors

Andrew B.

Andrew B. graduated from Justin-Siena High School in 2022 and is now currently in his first year at DVC. He is currently undecided on his major but plans to work within the gaming industry in some form whether it is with his computer science skills, graphic design skills, or with general story and plot development. He plans to transfer to a private university after his time at DVC. Andrew wants to make games that inspire both children and adults alike to make the world a beautiful place both physically and morally. Once you meet Andrew and get to know him, you'll notice he is very confident, sometimes clumsy but has a fiery personality. He is a passionate lover of music (singing, dancing, plays,) and he cares very intensely for his friends and family.

What are you most proud of during your time at DVC?

I would say I am immensely proud of my commitment to attending and working at the school. I challenged myself to balance a schedule of working and schooling and it really has been fulfilling in more than one way. I am also proud of the invaluable professional lessons I have learned as well as the connections I have made here. I will never forget my time here or the loving community that brought me up.

What is your advice for freshmen starting at DVC?

Well, I’m very excited you decided to join DVC! Welcome to the huge scary wall that is college! One of the hugest pieces of advice I could give to any student is to jump right in there! Involve yourself in the events, parties, scholarships, literally all of it! There are so many amazing opportunities and resources here! The counselors are amazing, the teachers are even better, and I would have to say the Welcome Services staff are one of the best (I’m a little biased). The guidance and support here is amazing so PLEASE take advantage of it. The Career & Transfer Center was also a particularly important starting ground for me as I did not know what I wanted to major in, and it has been so helpful in narrowing down the huge list I had. Make as many connections as you can and join at least 1 club. I hope to see you soon!

What is your favorite thing about DVC?

My favorite thing about DVC is the schedules for classes because many classes are asynchronous. The staff and faculty are also some of the nicest people I have ever encountered. They teach you how to be professional in the most loving of ways.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself as a Game Developer sending my games all around the world. I am also in the works with some family members on developing a T-Shirt business (Ynzunza Inc.). We make custom T-Shirts and prioritize working with small artists, but we are not opposed to big ones. I do hope to also get into politics, so I can increase representation in government not just for African-Americans, but also for my fellow middle-class citizens as well.

What is on your bucket list?

I definitely want to get into stocks which sounds weird, but I keep hearing lots of benefits about it, so I want to try it out. Additionally, I am a huge fan of visiting other countries! My list of countries that I want to visit are Brazil, Finland, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Nigeria, Switzerland, Singapore and Israel. Let me know if there are any other ones, I should check it out!

What else should we know about you?

Well, I’m a huge fan of K-pop and I learned how to dance from watching K-pop videos. I joined a studio when I was in high school named Chapkis and I danced there for four years. I have been acting, singing, and dancing for years and it has always been a passion of mine. I also love having philosophical or political discussions so if you find me on campus give me your best question.

Blen A.

Blen A. grew up in Tigray, Ethiopia, and graduated from Dougherty Valley High School in June of 2022. She is currently in her second year at DVC and planning on transferring to a four-year college as a biology major in the near future. She is a first-generation student and therefore has younger family members that look up to her. She is part of the Umoja and Mesa learning communities on campus and is passionate and active when it comes to supporting the Tigrayan community outside of school.

What are you most proud of during your time at DVC?

I am most proud of how much I have grown and how much I have challenged myself to get out of my comfort zone during my time here. I have been able to learn so many different things and meet so many people from diverse backgrounds and I have genuinely enjoyed that.

What is your advice for freshmen starting at DVC?

Don’t be scared to explore different things on campus whether that be classes, resources, programs, etc. I was lucky to join Umoja my first semester and that is what consistently challenged me to get out of my comfort zone and exposed me to different resources on campus. So, make the most out of your time: stay open-minded, meet new people, and challenge yourself to do something you’re interested in!

What is your favorite thing about DVC?

It would have to be all the different types of resources we have; I really appreciate that. We have everything you can think of from help with housing to food from tutoring to technology loans and the best part is that everything is easily accessible. And most importantly, you have a community here that’s supportive and there to help you succeed.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself having a full-time job working in the medical field and I hope to have found my purpose or at least a better understanding of it. I know it will be related to Tigray, my home country, so I hope to have found a creative way to give back to my community as well.

What is on your bucket list?

Traveling is definitely on top of my bucket list. Sometime in my mid 20s, hopefully after finishing my undergraduate degree, I want to spend about three months traveling. I want to take a solo trip to different parts of the world with an emphasis on countries in Africa.

What else should we know about you?

I enjoy listening to music, going to concerts, and hanging out with friends and family. I also like helping others, I find that very rewarding. And if you see me, I’m probably smiling 95% of the time. Lastly, I went to a private French school all my life until mid-high school so I’m fluent in French and speak a total of four languages (Tigrigna, Amharic, French, English).

Jasmine V.

Jasmine V. graduated from College Park High School in May of 2023, and is in her first year at DVC. She is majoring in Allied Health and plans to complete general education requirements in hopes of transferring to a CSU to obtain a BSN and become a nurse. In her free time, she loves to play games, listen to music, dance, sing, and go out to eat with friends or family.

What are you most proud of during your time at DVC?

I’m most proud of myself for taking a leap into the unknown and applying to be a part of Student Ambassador Program! It is a wonderful opportunity, and I am excited to work with everyone and help others!

What is your advice for freshmen starting at DVC?

My advice for freshmen is to be your own person, both in education and day-to-day life. Coming in as a freshman myself, it is without question that college is a big step in life. While you may meet new people and surround yourself with them, when it comes to progressing academically, no one else knows you better than yourself and only you can determine how to be successful. If it ever gets overwhelming, don’t forget to make time for yourself as well and do things you enjoy. Everyone is different and on their own journey, so own who you are and don’t be influenced by what others are doing.

What is your favorite thing about DVC?

My favorite thing about DVC is the community it brings together. Everyone is friendly and I always feel welcome every time I walk in. It inspires me to better myself and continue to give back.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself having a full-time job as a nurse and living life, potentially married. I also hope to have settled in a house or apartment with a pet dog as I have always wanted one.

What is on your bucket list?

A few of the things on my bucket list are travelling to Japan and Europe, learning Spanish or Korean, and attending a SZA concert.

What else should we know about you?

Music surrounds my life; I love to dance, listen to music, play instruments (guitar, ukulele, and piano), and sing! My favorite genres to listen to are R&B and K-Pop. I am also a huge anime fan and like to play Valorant.

Kadin F.

Kadin F. is a first-year student here at DVC. He is a film major and appreciates the DVC's film/FTVE professors. He graduated from De La Salle High School in 2023 and is excited to take this time at DVC to learn more about his passions for film and art, as well as discover more about himself.

What are you most proud of during your time at DVC?

Taking the opportunity to become a student ambassador is what I would say to be my most proud moment so far. Getting to meet new people and be a part of a workforce that is welcoming as much as it is diligent, positively influences me to continue to encourage myself to be a better worker each day.

What is your advice for freshmen starting at DVC?

For any incoming first-year students, I’d recommend that you take advantage of the counselors and the career and transfer center. They are here to help all students and many students are afraid of using that resource, but don’t be.

What is your favorite thing about DVC?

Besides my great job and screenwriting class, my favorite thing about DVC is the food they serve at the Café outside the LHS building which serves some really crispy orange chicken and egg rolls. Plus, they don’t skimp on the skimp on the serving sizes!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself continuing to pursue my goal as a film director, writing my own films to learn wherever and whenever I can.

What is on your bucket list?

I would really like to visit Thailand one day. I love the food, the culture, and the unique places that can only be found there, and I hope to see it up close one day soon.

What else should we know about you?

I’m always ready to meet new people and want to put out a welcoming energy to everyone. Feel free to ask me anything if you need it. I’m all about putting kindness into the world, in hopes that we all pay it forward not back.

Kaia K.

Kaia K. was born and raised in Korea and came to the United States to study abroad last year. She is majoring in media communication studies and has plans to transfer to a four-year university to specialize in Public Relations. Kaia loves traveling and trying new things. In her downtime, she enjoys digging for artistic inspirations such as film, painting, and music.

What are you most proud of during your time at DVC?

I am most proud of myself for not hesitating to step out of my comfort zone. As an international student, evrything was a new challenge for me when I just started my journey at DVC. However, from joining the Student Ambassador program to engaging in clubs, internships, and campus community, I challenged myself constantly. Initially, it was tough, but I kept going, and this journey has been transformative. I believe embracing everyday challenges has boosted my self-confidence and expanded my life experiences significantly.

What is your advice for freshmen starting at DVC?

Starting college means you are more responsible with everything and you should be more aware of time management. It’s hard to keep track of all your assignments, exams, and other things to do, so I highly recommend using a planning app or program that aligns with your personal preferences. Personally, I have been relying on Notion since last year, and it has become an indispensable tool in my life. Notion not only assists me in efficiently managing my time and schedules but also allows me to design custom pages with cute templates.

What is your favorite thing about DVC?

My favorite thing about DVC is that the accessibility to all the resources. DVC extends its support far beyond academics, encompassing counseling services, therapy sessions, a food pantry, tech device rental, and more! DVC provides a number of good resources for studnet’s basic need and well being. If you need anything, DVC is always a reliable ally.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself as a professional PR Specialist, deeply passionate about my profession and be respected in the field. Also, I hope I will be a person who is confident, self-loved, and can give a genuine care for others as part of my personal growth journey.

What is on your bucket list?

At the top of my bucket list is seeing Adelie penguins in their natural habitat. Ever since I watched a documentary about penguins in high school, this desire has been a driving force for me.

What else should we know about you?

I was born and raised in Korea, so I would love to speak with you in Korean at Welcome Services! I love exploring not well known but really cute cafe, so I can give the best recommendation for a cute coffee spot. Always feel free to ask me!

MacKenzie H.

MacKenzie H. is a recent graduate from Pittsburg High School class of 2023! She was born and raised in the Bay Area and is in her first year here at DVC. Mackenzie is a student athlete and is proudly playing soccer here at DVC! She loves plants, poetry, and music. She plans to major in computer science and is hoping to transfer to a four-year university after her 2 years at DVC.

What are you most proud of during your time at DVC?

Something I have been most proud of during my time at DVC is playing soccer, as well as being a full-time student, and becoming a student ambassador! I love that I can get out of my comfort zone by meeting new people. Helping people is the drive I crave to help push myself to better my future self.

What is your advice for freshmen starting at DVC?

My advice for freshman starting at DVC is to do what makes you happy! Do what you can do to fulfill your goals and always make sure you work hard! You are on the right path by just coming to DVC. Keep a positive mindset and keep going.

What is your favorite thing about DVC?

My favorite thing about DVC is that there is so many great programs here. A lot of great resources. And I also love the athletics department, because it is brand new and everything there is so nice and snazzy.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself happy and always grinding and working hard to where I need to be. I really do not have an exact vision for myself, but I know that what I do right now, changes the way my future can go, so I choose to always work hard/

What is on your bucket list?

I really want to go travel with friends and take a whole week vacation to have fun. I love exploring new things and trying new food. All I ever want is time to have fun and see new things.

What else should we know about you?

I am always reading or listening to poetry, and I love to write. I am looking to get more into my creative side and start to draw and paint.

Samantha R.

Samantha R. graduated from Martinez Alhambra High School, year 2022 and is now in her 2nd year at DVC. She is first generation and is following her dreams to pursue a Masters in Psychology and plans to transfer to a UC school after. Samantha wants to inspire other students and give back to her community once she gets her Master's Degree. Once you meet Samantha and get to know her, she’s very friendly, sometimes crazy but has a bubbly personality. She enjoys being with her family and friends, going out on adventures, hiking, church and travelling a lot. She puts God and her family first most of all and will pursue a career she is passionate of to help those around her.

What are you most proud of during your time at DVC?

I am most proud of myself being a student ambassador program because I am taking the challenge to get further in my education and learning. I am also proud of how well I am managing my work with school as well, I see the responsibilities I am handling each day.

What is your advice for freshmen starting at DVC?

Hey, I am so excited you decided to Join DVC! Welcome! College can be tough but do not worry, your hard work pays off and you have made the great decision to come to DVC! There are amazing Counselors and other DVC staff members that are always there for you for guidance and support. DVC is a great way to start off your year because it gives you so many opportunities to succeed and transfer to a CSU or UC college you want in the future. It gives you the options to discover yourself on what you would like to study. So do not worry if you are an undecided major but I do recommend making connections, joining clubs, doing classes that interest you!

What is your favorite thing about DVC?

My favorite thing about DVC is that it is an encouraging and welcoming community that welcomes people of diversity. DVC offers amazing programs such as Puente, Umoja and Mesa. I am in Puente and I truly love it! I get to have counselors that give me the support I need and amazing professors that motivate me to succeed.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In ten years, I aim to be a Child Psychologist traveling across the world and helping people. However, I have faith and trust in the pathway that God has prepared and planned for me.

What is on your bucket list?

I want to go travel to Thailand and ride on an elephant. I also want to go out on different adventures and be able to capture the moments so I can upload them to my YouTube channel!

What else should we know about you?

I love going out on hikes, watching movies, and going on different adventures. I love being around kids! I had the opportunity to donate toys and food to underprivileged kids located in Peru and I would love to do it again. I like doing videography and photography, so you will always see me with my iPhone storage full. I like to capture the moments!

Sarahi S.

Sarahi S. graduated from Contra Costa School of Performing Arts in 2022. She is in her second year here at DVC. She is majoring in Biological Science, and she hopes to transfer to a four-year University. She plans to one day become a pharmacist.

Sarahi always loves a good laugh and having fun. She is excited to be a part of the Student Ambassador Program! She is always happy to meet new people so if you see her around, please say hi!

What are you most proud of during your time at DVC?

I am most proud of my time in the Puente Program. I got to make so many connections with students, counselors, professors, and mentors. Through the program I was able to plan my education plan to eventually transfer to a four-year University. My Puente Counselor was the one who helped me with applying for the student ambassador program, which I am also very proud to be a part of. I am very proud of myself for deciding to join Puente because it led me to participate in many new opportunities

What is your advice for freshmen starting at DVC?

My advice for freshmen is to not be afraid of joining clubs, learning communities, leadership positions, etc. because that is the best way to make connections and form a community that can help support you reach your goals. I would also advise you to take advantage of all of DVC’s resources such as the many student success centers (my favorite being the PUMA Center). All these resources are here to help you succeed. So please take a chance and join a program that speaks to you.

What is your favorite thing about DVC?

My favorite thing about DVC is the students, I have had the opportunity to meet so many students through the Puente Program and the student ambassador program. Everyone is very nice, and I have been able to make so many friends which is amazing because I was scared that I wouldn’t make friends during college. DVC Students have been my favorite part of attending DVC because they make it feel like I belong.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In ten years, I see myself finishing Pharmacy School and hopefully working in my dream field which is Pharmacy. I hope that I will continue to help others the way I help other students here at DVC.

What is on your bucket list?

Some thing on my bucket list is to travel around the world and eventually visit every Continent.

What else should we know about you?

I really like musical theatre; my favorite musicals are Newsies and In the Heights. Also, my favorite color and I am obsessed with hairbows and glitter.

Xumeng Z.

Xumeng Z. is an international student who graduated from a high school in China. She is currently in her second semester here at DVC. Majoring in Applied Math, she plans to transfer to a UC to obtain a Bachelor’s degree. She is still exploring her career path and hopes to find the academic area that she truly loves one day.

What are you most proud of during your time at DVC?

I am continuously stepping out of my comfort zone while attending DVC. Being from a small town in China where I’ve grown up over the last 18 years to moving to a completely unfamiliar country, I’ve gained the courage to see the world on my own.

What is your advice for freshmen starting at DVC?

Welcome to DVC! Utilize the school resources sufficiently. No matter what difficulties you are facing, you can definitely find a place that can help you. And the Welcome Center is definitely the first place to go to if you don’t know where to get help!

What is your favorite thing about DVC?

The great diversity and supportive student services.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see a more powerful self who is satisfied with every choice that I’ve made.

What is on your bucket list?

Surfing and trying all the good food around the world!

What else should we know about you?

I’m from China, and my first language is Mandarin. Feel free to talk to me in Mandarin!