Spotlights

Haleluyah Etienne

 

Haleluyah EtienneSociology - Transfer to University of Southern California (USC)

As an immigrant, first-generation student, it took me 6 years since moving to the U.S. to start my higher education journey. I was unaware of financial aid, scholarships, and the support provided for students in the education system. I viewed getting a degree as something that only rich kids who got straight A’s could do, and I didn’t fit into that category.

During the pandemic, after I lost my job and was stuck in the house, I finally took a deep breath and started planning my future. I googled “What is the best community college in CA?” and found SMC.

Google wasn’t wrong; SMC opened so many doors for me! This was one of the best decisions of my life. SMC gave me the opportunity to excel by providing flexible schedules and supportive professors and counselors. My leadership abilities were recognized and celebrated when I was elected President of the Black Collegians Club and Vice President for the PTK Honors Society. This, along with earning a 4.0 GPA, gave me the confidence to believe that I can succeed in anything.

In fall 2023, I will transfer to my dream university and the only university I applied to. I received a FULL RIDE for USC. I am beyond grateful for this amazing opportunity. I will major in Sociology, and hope to double major in Film and minor in Music Production.