Juan Calix
Major: Criminal Justice
Future Plans: Transfer to Rutgers University to pursue a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and Psychology. Plans to become a Detective or Probation Officer.
Phi Theta Kappa member
First of six siblings to attend college
United States Marine Corps veteran
“While I was in the military, I never thought of attending college, but here I am now accomplishing another goal to better my future and of my four girls. My wife Miryam and I have been putting a lot of extra hours into our education and focusing on our future goals while maintaining a family at home. We choose to come to RVCC because it was the number one recommended community college in the area. RVCC has helped my family and me by providing us with scholarship opportunities and always being there for us when we need guidance."
“A few months ago I lost my full-time job, and for a second it seemed like school was going to be put on hold again. But then I received a scholarship from the RVCC Foundation and it removed some of the weight off my shoulder and made it possible for me to attend two more semesters at RVCC.”
Miryam Calix
Major: Business
Future Plans: To transfer to The College of New Jersey and major in accounting
Alpha Beta Gamma member
Took five years to earn her Associate Degree while working & raising a family
“It sure wasn’t easy to raise three children under the age of 5, work, and go to school, but I was able to push through and see the light at the end of the tunnel. My goal is to transfer to TCNJ and study accounting. What I learned here at RVCC is that hard work pays off, and with the help of my family I know I will get there. And so I remind myself that direction is so much more important than speed.”
Anthony Celentano
Major: Information Systems & Technology
Future Plans: Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree at Rutgers University in Information Technology with a concentration in cyber security
Graduated in top 5% of high school class, NJ STARS scholar
“Two years ago, I struggled to envision where I would be at this point in my education. I was a senior in high school and I knew I wanted to take the path of higher education but was unsure on where exactly that path would begin for me. I found myself starting at a school that truly places the emphasis on being a community in the title “community college.” A place that challenges its students so that they are readily prepared for exciting careers. Among all else, Raritan Valley Community College is a place that invites people from all backgrounds to learn not just a wealth of knowledge and information, but rather more importantly that their future can begin here where “the sky is the limit.” "
“RVCC has offered me more than I could ever ask for. The faculty and professors -the heart of the campus-have been inspirational and care so much to see their students succeed in both their academics and careers. The opportunities to get involved on campus are also endless and I have found myself taking pride in being part of the Galileo scholar program, both Phi Theta Kappa & Alpha Beta Gamma honor societies, and especially in being a student ambassador. As an ambassador I have the privilege of welcoming the next generation of RVCC students to campus and sharing all that Raritan offers. I must acknowledge the financial burden lifted off my family’s “shoulders” by choosing RVCC. Between the NJ Stars State scholarship and generous donations made in part by members of the RVCC Foundation, I have been afforded the most wonderful gift – a cost-free education, something that I never would have imagined and am eternally grateful for.“
Emily Erickson
Major: Engineering & Mathematics
Future Plans: Transfer to Rutgers University and pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in mechanical engineering
“Deciding to come to RVCC was the best option financially, and in all honesty, I wasn’t ready to leave home yet."
“I spent my first semester figuring out how to navigate college successfully, and by the second semester I had a greater understanding of who I was and what I wanted to be. I started my first internship, at a biopharmaceutical manufacturing company where I still work, and I’m really focused on making myself an engineer. I joined the Engineering Club, an organization that I am still a part of, serving as VP of Projects. Since joining the club I have organized two field trips, worked with the Mathematics Club on a drone project, and organized a Little Scientist Night for over 100 children and their families. I have learned leadership skills and how to be part of a team, as well as established a one-on-one relationship with an amazing faculty member and Engineering Club advisor – the first female engineer I had ever met."
“There are so many things that I hope to accomplish, but most importantly, I want to have an impact on the future generation of STEM students because right now it is hard to be a female in this field. I didn’t grow up playing with Legos or building things the way my peers did, I have always loved Barbies, but that doesn’t mean I will be any less of an engineer, just a different kind. Through my time at Raritan Valley Community College I have grown to learn what I deserve and how to work to get it, and hopefully the next generation doesn’t have to wait until college to meet their first female engineer.”
Pooja Modh
Major: Nursing
Future Plans: Earn a BSN from Kean University and eventually earn a Master’s Degree to become a nurse practitioner
Vice President for Finance, Student Nurses Association
First Generation college student
“I am one of three children, and both of my brothers also graduated from the RVCC Nursing program. I chose RVCC because I saw how both of my brothers loved the school and really grew as people. Coming to RVCC for me felt like a home away from home. Many of the nursing professors knew my brothers so I felt right at home.”
“RVCC has helped me tremendously grow as a person and more importantly has given me the tools for when I graduate and step out into the world as a nurse. In order to fulfill this dream of mine, I had great help without which I would not be preparing for graduation and a nursing career.”
“I work and independently fund my own education. I am a hardworking student who is always striving to do the best not only for myself but for others as well. I am a reflection of my family, friends and community. As a member of the Student Nurses Association I had an opportunity to work on projects to give back to the community.”
