Aida Arias came to GateWay Community College after a recommendation from an academic advisor. While Arias was closer to one of our sister colleges, she felt a special connection to GateWay.
“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do and she really guided me through my whole path at GateWay,” Arias said. “The relationship that I created with my advisor was a really strong relationship and she really got me to get used to coming here to GateWay in a friendly way.”
The advising staff contributed greatly to keeping Arias on the right path for graduation.
“I always wanted to take classes I really did not need,” she said. “I am so glad my advisor did not let me because it helped me stay on track and to finish in the time specified so I am able to complete my degree.”
Arias spent two-and-a-half years studying at GateWay where she recently graduated with an associate in arts degree with an emphasis in psychology. She transferred to Arizona State University to purse her bachelors in science and psychology. She hopes to participate in research studies.
“My ultimate goal is to go to the graduate school there which is a link between a masters and doctoral program and become a practicing psychologist,” Arias shared.
Another resource on campus Arias found useful was the career counseling tests. After taking one, she was able to determine what career path best fit with her personality. The Career Center at GateWay offers the tests as well as helps resume building and job searches.
Arias worked as a peer advocate on campus in the Student Success Center. While doing that, she worked with students who are at risk of failing in their classes. Arias walked students through the variety of free services they could receive on campus to help students succeed.
“My time at GateWay was a new experience for me; everyone was really wonderful here,” Arias said.