Ashley Arriaga

Associate in Arts

Ashley Arriaga grew up in the small farming community of Paterson, Washington. After graduating from Prosser High School in 2012, she began working at Bolthouse Farms. Wanting to continue her education, she enrolled at YVC in the winter of 2013 and began her studies on the Grandview Campus.

“I originally wanted to go straight to a four-year university, but instead I choose to attend YVC to save money,” stated Arriaga. “After starting at the college there were several instructors who helped change my viewpoint. I know they say high school teachers are supposed to care more about students, but I think college instructors care more. I’ve had several instructors stay after class to help. In addition the small class sizes allowed more one-on-one interaction with instructors,” she continued.

Arriaga was recently awarded the 2015-2016 Herodotus-Gedosch Award. This award was created in the spirit of Herodotus, the “Father of History,” and Robert Gedosch, a former YVC History Instructor and recognizes exceptional history students.

“I have always felt lost,” continued Arriaga. “My journey through YVC has helped me realize what I want to do. I am very thankful for YVC and the instructors who have helped me succeed,” she concluded.

She graduated with an associate in arts degree this June and plans to transfer to Central Washington University to pursue a degree in history and sociology. She is interested in joining the Peace Corps, is passionate about helping others, and hopes to travel internationally.