Meet the Grads: OCC Class of 2023

The last few years have prompted all of us to ask hard questions about the future. Questions about who we are and who we want to be. When faced with an extraordinary shift in all we knew to be true, we suddenly had to get used to a new normal: Change. This created a need for adaptability on a scale previously unimaginable. While this has been stressful, it’s also created new paths forward, allowed us to find our true voice and accomplish new goals. The door to the future is open as never before.

Samantha Vuktilaj

Associate in Arts, Associate in Business Administration, Certificate in Transfer Studies

“Your past doesn’t define your future. Every day is a chance to change your future, to create it into what you want it to be.”

Dominique Young

Associate in Business Administration

“You already won as long as you keep moving. The moment you stop, that’s when you’ve lost. Life happens to everybody, but it’s all about the choices you make that determines the outcome of your story.”

Ambria Ellis

Associate in Business Administration

“I had great experiences at OCC. I was able to create great opportunities for myself because I attended this college. It’s a wonderful stepping-stone for me, and I will never forget these prime moments during my time at OCC.”

Hope Pacheco

Associate in Arts, Associate in General Studies, Transfer Studies Certificate

“OCC has provided me with a better education, and I have been able to learn what college is like at a younger age than most people. I appreciate the impact OCC has had on me, and I understand what classes will be like when I transfer to a university.”

Ainsley Rahm

Associate in Arts and Associate in General Studies

“The past few years have been really hard, but it’s been great getting to know everyone and being a part of the ACE community at OCC. I had no idea what ACE was going to be like, and it looks like going to OCC turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made.”

Kimberly Campbell

Associate in Science

“At OCC, I learned to take advantage of any opportunity because you never know what can come out of it or who you may meet. It’s so important to branch out, even if you are uncertain or nervous. I came to OCC as a high school student not sure about much, and I’m leaving with more knowledge both from inside the classroom and outside of it.”

Justin Harnack

Associate in Applied Science in Graphic Design

“Take every opportunity given to you and make the most out of it.”

Katie Paille

Associate in Arts

“Future students, see all OCC has to offer and get involved in whatever you can. There are people to meet and a lot to learn and you can make connections with faculty.”

Monica Barrera

Associate in Arts; Associate in Science

“I remember how scared I was moving to a different country with a different language and culture. I’m proud I never gave up. I was struggling and lost, but I kept moving forward and even retook some classes. Sometimes I don’t give myself enough credit, but I’m proud of what I’ve been through.”