Associate in Arts

Angela Munoz was born in Prosser, Washington. She attended Grandview School District and jumped at the opportunity to enroll as a Running Start student during her junior year. Running Start provides students like Angela the opportunity to complete college-level credits without the cost of tuition. Juniors and seniors can continue to attend high school while also taking courses at YVC.

“I choose the Running Start program because I wanted to get my AA and get some college experience before I went to a big university,” stated Munoz. “I like that the program gave me the skills I need to succeed at the University of Washington. I don’t think I would’ve had the opportunity to work toward my goals without this program,” she continued.

Like many students, Angela had to balance coursework, high school graduation requirements, varsity athletics, national honor society, and a part-time job. Overall, she enjoyed her experience on campus, which allowed her to take different classes, make new friends, and take part in student activities.

A first-generation college student, Munoz graduates this June with her high school diploma from Grandview High School and her associate in arts from Yakima Valley College. Munoz was offered an $88,000 scholarship to attend the University of Portland in the fall. “This funding means that all of my hard work paid off, it showed me that if I work hard I can achieve great things that can help me with my future,” she concluded. Ultimately, after reviewing her options she decided to attend the University of Washington in the fall. She plans to earn her bachelor’s degree in pre-health and then transfer to medical school. Her goal is to become an orthopedic physician.