Mariano Salvador knows what it means to get a second chance - and to make the most of it.
When he first attended DVC, he struggled more than he ever expected. A 1.6 GPA, academic probation, and eventually, dismissal from school seemed to confirm his worst fears. Maybe college wasn’t for him. Maybe success was out of reach.
But deep down, Mariano wasn’t ready to give up.
He spent nearly the next five years focusing on self-development, reinvention and working in different fields. During this time, he became both his own therapist and mentor, determined to turn his life around. Along the way, he found his true calling - helping others through psychology.
“After taking a break from school due to poor performance and not having a clear sense of direction, who I was, what I wanted - I finally found my passion,” he says. “For the first time in my life, I was ready to give academics my full effort, with real conviction.”
Mariano came back to DVC determined to rewrite his story. He was eager to learn how to help others overcome challenges, find healing and build fulfilling lives. “In this process of pursuing happiness and being of service to others I discovered my passion for mental health and wellness along with my desire to explore human behavior and the behavioral sciences.”
With a renewed sense of purpose Mariano was intent on being a better student but the road ahead wasn’t easy. Reinstatement was just the beginning. He had to petition to retake multiple classes he had failed or withdrawn from, improve his GPA and confront both anxiety and health struggles head-on.
"I had to overcome the paralyzing anxiety I felt in the classroom, especially with public speaking. Committing to my health also meant becoming sober and returning to school was a blessing I wanted to honor."
With perseverance he regained control of his mental health through a dedication to lifestyle changes which ultimately transformed both his academic and personal life.
The support of his professors and the program’s structured, goal-oriented approach also helped him thrive. “Their genuine compassion and life lessons made class material really relevant.”
Besides his professors Mariano credits DVC’s Career Services along with Academic Counselor Taylor Harris, the Math Lab and DVC student tutors for his growth and success.
Mariano’s journey at DVC ended in triumph. He graduated with academic honors and made his mark as a standout tennis player becoming a NorCal doubles champion ranking #1 in NorCal for doubles and placing in the top 15 for singles. His academic turnaround was just as impressive.
“I went from a 1.6 GPA to a 3.7 earning straight A’s for the first time in my life and receiving academic honors every semester thereafter.”
What’s Mariano doing now? After he was accepted into all nine schools he applied to for transfer, he ultimately transferred to UC Berkeley where he continues to thrive. In his first semester he earned straight A’s, joined the B PsychEd club’s Personality Psychology committee and secured a spot on the 15-time champion Cal Club Tennis team.
Looking back, Mariano hopes his journey inspires others who may be struggling. “I want to share my story and everything I’ve learned along the way, especially as an older student, and to encourage others to keep going.”
Learn more about DVC's psychology degree program!
