Aaron Washington
"Whether you're struggling at home and you have a lot going on, you always have someone to talk to here. Someone's always here to listen."
Age:
21
Hometown:
Springfield
Major:
Biology
Activities/Employment:
Work-study, Student Activities; president, HCC Fashion Club; HCC Radio Club – co-host with DJ Star on WCCH 103.5 FM, Mondays from 10 a.m. to 12 noon.
Favorite course and teacher:
Understanding Diversity with Vanessa Martinez. Her class was definitely a wake-up call for me. It was compelling and the first time I had ever given a presentation. I went in there with my head down, not ready for anything, but she's engaging. She talks to every student and makes sure every student is involved. I definitely needed that.
What classes are you taking this semester?
Animal Behavior, Principles of Chemistry. World Regional Geography (online) and Pharmacology for Health Careers
What brought you to HCC?
I came to HCC because of the diversity. You can be going to class with people of all ages and you just interact with so many different people from all over western Massachusetts or even from outside western Mass.
What's been your most meaningful experience at HCC?
Working with Daisy Castro, '15, and Liz Golen (coordinator) in Student Activities. They pretty much took me under their wings as a work-study student. I learned a lot from them: communication skills, interpersonal skills. I definitely appreciate it cause they made me feel more comfortable in my own skin and just a better person.
Why is education important to you?
There's a lot of things you need to learn, living in this fascinating world. Education is essential in our everyday lives and nowadays it is often impossible to find job opportunities without it.
What's the biggest challenge you've had to overcome at HCC?
The biggest challenge I've had to overcome is withdrawing from a course. After I withdrew, I felt like I was failing and didn't feel good about myself, it was something I had to do, personally, because I was going through some things. The time wasn't right for me. I tried to stick it out but I couldn't. It was an early morning class and I had to take the bus. It was a big step, but it was definitely another wake-up call. I don't plan on withdrawing from any more courses. The course was Principles of Chemistry, which I am taking again right now. I withdrew from that class but I didn't give up.
What is your favorite thing about HCC?
The diversity. You meet so many people here from all kinds of backgrounds and you learn a lot of things from those people.
What's the most important thing you've learned at HCC?
Whether you're struggling at home and you have a lot going on, you always have someone to talk to here. Someone's always here to listen.
Any advice for other students?
Use the resources that HCC has to offer. The CAPS center is essential here if you're struggling with anything. It's definitely gotten me places. I've used it for a lot of classes.
What are your plans after HCC?
When I graduate, I'm hoping to transfer to Western New England into their pre-pharmacy program. I want to be a pharmacist.
