Gloria Sanchez

Student

“International students must learn the language well, especially the writing because that’s how people know you. It’s very hard, but we must handle it.”

“Computers, paint brushes, multi-media, anything you can use to design with. It all happens at SMC,” says Gloria Sanchez, future graphic designer. “I think the teachers here are great because they listen and give good advice. I had Mr. Urmston for art history, and he’s one of the best. He really encourages people, and he’s helped a lot of Latino students get through school. He makes you enjoy learning.” But enjoying the learning process seems to come naturally to Gloria, a native of Chile, even when the course of education takes an unexpected turn.

“I was at another college before where I was studying psychology,” reports Gloria. “But then I took one design class at SMC and fell in love with it. So I decided to stick with art. I’ve discovered so many new skills here, and I feel like I’ve built up a pretty good background by now.” Following transfer to Cal State Long Beach, Gloria has a definite game plan for her career. “I’ll be a graphic artist and spend my free time doing my own fine art work. I’d like to do illustrations, commercial and logo designs, packaging art, and advertising,” she says. “It’s a very tough field to go into, but I know I’m going to make it. I’ve been doing very well at SMC, and I don’t have any problems with my grades.”

Gloria just returned to SMC from a year in Venezuela. “It was a very good experience living there, but I’m definite about finishing school in the US,” she says. “It’s helpful to travel and to get broad experience,” she adds. “But soon I will be gone from SMC, and I know I’m going to miss this school a lot. I will always remember this place because, over time, you become like a family here.”

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