Second generation immigrant pens own American Dream

Share: “A writer. I want to be a writer.” I’m met with shocked silence, hesitant smiles, nervous laughs. They asked me questions and delicately danced around the topic. No, I’m not joking. Yes, I’m sure that this is what I want to do. No, I don’t think I’ll change my mind. Of course I’m not trying to disappoint you—that’s the last thing I want to do. Their pained expressions stayed plastered on their faces. Follow:

Latinx employees crusade for change and representation

Share: Four board members of the Association of Latino Employees (ALE) stood proudly as they prepared to deliver their speech. President and founding member Carlos “Tito” Altamirano donned a shirt with the words “Educated Latino” emblazoned on the front. To their left sat the Board of Trustees, and to their right was the public—all were an audience to ALE’s first presentation to spark a collective conversation about equality, empowerment, and representation for members of the Latinx community at PCC.  Follow:

Coming out: A look at Queer Alliance’s president

Share: Sitting in the shade of the noisy quad, Frances Guzman reflected on her not so smooth coming out. Amidst the chaos of lunchtime pop music with bordering on painful sound to bass ratio, Guzman talked about coming from a childhood without LGBT+ representation, being raised in a Mexican family and learning how to navigate sexuality and gender identity largely on her own while also taking a leadership position. Follow:

‘Leadership is where I belong’: Meet the new AS prez

Share: Everyone’s path towards success leads differently. Dionne B. Shelton, current President of Associated Students, discovered hers after she was overseen for a promotion at her previous job. She had the skills and built relationships but lacked the degree. Frustrated with being overlooked because of nepotism, Shelton began her journey at Pasadena City College and discovered her leadership capabilities.  Follow: