Juniper and other GateWay Student Council members attend the Student Council Bash.
At this time last year, Juniper, aka Joseph Mamola, was a busy GateWay Community College student and Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) leader collaborating with other students to host a Toy Drive as their community service project. But that was only one of the many things Juniper has accomplished since their time at GateWay.
As an active member of Gateway’s Alpha Alpha Epsilon Chapter of the International Honors Society for Community College Students, Juniper has been an involved, high-achiever during their time at GateWay. Kim Chamberlain, GateWay English Faculty and PTK advisor, has been proud to watch Juniper’s success over the past year. “Juniper is a wonderful role model for our student community, and I’m very proud of their achievements,” she said. “Juniper took on a leadership role within the chapter as Vice President of Leadership. They attended monthly meetings. They helped promote PTK on campus by personally handing out promotional materials.”
Juniper’s hard work paid off this year when they were awarded the Chime Workforce Scholarship from PTK. This scholarship is given to community college students who are pursuing career and technical educational opportunities. We interviewed Juniper to find out more about them and how this scholarship has supported their education.
What high school did you go to?
I went to Brophy College Preparatory.
Why did you choose to attend GateWay?
I chose to attend GateWay as a path that has amazing classes/programs, and is also accessible to me! I am someone with big dreams of making a positive impact in the world.
What are you majoring in at GateWay?
I’m currently enrolled in courses at GateWay in an exploratory capacity. While I’m not pursuing a declared major at this time, I’m continuing my education through classes that support my professional and personal goals, such as design and business. My focus is on gaining skills that will help me build a unique and meaningful path forward!
How is the Chime Workforce Scholarship impacting your education?
The Chime Scholarship has allowed me to continue pursuing my education at GateWay by making classes more financially accessible. It’s given me the flexibility to explore courses that support both my personal growth and my long-term goals, while also easing some of the financial stress of enrollment. I’m so grateful for the support the Chime Scholarship has given me!
How did you get involved in Phi Theta Kappa?
I first learned about Phi Theta Kappa through my honors advisor, who encouraged me to join because of my academic performance and interest in community. I wanted to connect with like-minded students, access scholarship opportunities, and be part of a group that values leadership and learning. From there, I applied and was honored to be elected Vice President of Leadership!
What are some of the things you’ve accomplished through the organization?
One of the highlights was co-organizing a holiday Toy Drive in partnership with Toys for Tots. I served as the liaison with the organization, coordinated toy box pick-ups and drop-offs, and helped promote the event. Working alongside another VP and our advisor, we were able to bring the community together in a meaningful way. Beyond events, PTK has also given me access to scholarships and opportunities to engage more fully with the GateWay community.
What achievements are you most proud of?
I’m especially proud of stepping into leadership roles that I never imagined for myself before PTK. Organizing the Toy Drive was meaningful not only because of the impact on families, but also because it showed me that I have the ability to coordinate, lead, and inspire. I’m also proud of my creative and academic projects through the Honors Program, like designing a conflict resolution zine, which combined research, reflection, and art in a way that was new for me.
What is your favorite college memory thus far?
One of my favorite memories was visiting Arcosanti with the Honors Program. Experiencing a space built on ecological principles reminded me of how passion and creativity can shape a better world. Another favorite was seeing the toy boxes we’d organized through PTK fill up across campus—a simple but powerful sign of community coming together.
Why would you encourage others to get involved in PTK and other college organizations?
I would encourage others to get involved because organizations like PTK and the Honors Program open doors to growth that you might not expect. They provide scholarships, leadership opportunities, and meaningful ways to connect with your community. Most importantly, they help you discover strengths you might not have recognized in yourself until you had the chance to put them into action.
What are your goals and plans after GateWay?
My plans after GateWay are to continue developing the skills and experiences I’ve gained here and expand them into building a future alongside my partner. Together, we’re growing an herbal apothecary that seeks to make medicine truly accessible and holistic. I want to keep learning, exploring, and finding ways to bring healing and care to communities in meaningful, sustainable ways.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’d just like to share my gratitude—for the support of Phi Theta Kappa, the Honors Program, and GateWay overall. The opportunities I’ve had here have helped me realize that education doesn’t have to follow a single path, but can be a foundation for creating something unique. I’m excited to continue shaping a future rooted in care, community, and creativity.
Find out more about PTK and the benefits of membership at https://www.gatewaycc.edu/students/campus-life/phi-theta-kappa-ptk.
