Catherine Walton-Woodson
Even though Manny and Martha had different reasons for attending college at different life stages, this grandson and grandmother duo are thriving at DVC.
Kosmakos enrolled in DVC’s film, television, and electronic media (FTVE) program, where he earned a certificate of accomplishment in television arts – studio production.
“DVC has long been recognized for meeting students wherever they are on their educational path, and guiding them to success,” said Paul Pitner, professor for early childhood education at DVC.
The support Guydon-Off received inspired him to help other students have a more positive experience, leading him to become a student ambassador for DVC. “I helped students apply and register for classes. In addition to working with students who recently completed high school, I also helped adults who were returning to college or starting college for the first time. I assisted students who spoke a language other than English. I helped mothers with children, adults wanting a career change, and unhoused people seeking opportunity. I experienced the diversity of the student body, as well as the sacrifices people made to be able to enroll in college,” said Guydon-Off.
“During my first year at DVC, I was at a crossroads. While at a dental cleaning appointment, my hygienist asked me about my goals. She told me how much she enjoyed being a dental hygienist. After that conversation, I looked into dental hygiene, and the rest is history,” said Michael Vu, a 2015 graduate of the DVC dental hygiene program.