As an international student, Floris Brussaard was looking for more than just a college; he wanted community, a place where he could belong. Being far from home, he knew that finding a strong support system would be essential to both his academic success and personal well-being.
“Being raised by a single parent made me value spaces where people lift each other up,” Floris shared. “DVC felt like one of those places. I saw how diverse and driven the student body was, and how much support existed for those trying to change their lives.”
Now a double major in economics and mathematics, Floris is passionate about understanding the systems that shape society. He’s especially interested in how policies and laws impact people’s lives and how they can be improved.
At the same time, he enjoys the challenge of math, which pushes him to think both creatively and analytically. “Together, they help me see both the theory and the structure underneath complex issues,” he said.
That mindset doesn’t just apply to his studies; it’s also helped him adjust to a new chapter in his life. Leaving the Netherlands to attend college came with obstacles, and with no family nearby, Floris relies on his own resilience to build a new life in a new country.
“Moving here alone was hard, but I embrace challenges. They help me grow and learn about myself, and I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.”
At DVC, Floris found the support he needed to thrive. He highlights his professors as key to his journey, from their conversations, to being challenged in ways that deepened his thinking.
“In bigger colleges it’s easy to feel invisible,” Floris said. “But here, there’s a real culture of care without sacrificing academic standards. It’s rigorous, but also incredibly human.”
One instructor who made a lasting impact was his English professor, Susan Burgess. She helped Floris organize DVC’s first-ever TEDx event and guided him in refining a speech he later delivered to members of Congress about key issues facing DVC students.
He also credits his calculus professor, Glenn Scott, whose passion for math sparked Floris’s own curiosity. “With Mr. Scott, I’ve always felt supported. His enthusiasm inspired me to explore challenging concepts and made me more excited about math.”
Outside the classroom, he admired Professor Scott’s dedication to student success. “He works hard to make sure San Ramon students feel seen and have access to the same opportunities as the Pleasant Hill campus.”
Floris has fed his passion for community through leadership, serving as vice president for ASDVC San Ramon, vice president of education for Toastmasters, and now president of DVC’s Phi Theta Kappa. He extends that commitment by tutoring students at both DVC campuses.
Beyond DVC, he is the state director of membership for California FBLA, earned second place at nationals with his team for a college transfer tool pitch, and won first place in speech at the NCFA Championships. Still, tutoring remains closest to his heart.
“Helping someone understand a math concept or write a strong essay reminds me why I do this,” he said. “It’s a direct way to give back.”
Floris is now preparing to transfer and looking ahead to a future in law or public policy.
“I want to improve education, housing and support for underserved communities, especially single-parent families like the one I grew up in.”
Learn more about DVC's economics associate degree for transfer and begin your journey toward success today.
