Daisy Antunez

Associate in Science

Daisy Antunez is the first in her family to attend college and qualifies to participate in YVC’s Mathematics, Engineering, Science, Achievement (MESA) program. MESA provides support to student interested in pursuing a four-year degree in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM). Antunez is experiencing first-hand the benefits of MESA and is excited about her career track.

Daisy originally enrolled at YVC in the fall of 2012. She struggled to navigate the college environment, and was not successful in her classes. After just one quarter she dropped out and decided to work full-time as a nursing assistant.

In the fall of 2013, she re-enrolled to pursue her dream of becoming a trauma surgeon. This time she applied to the MESA program to get the extra support she needed. “MESA has provided academic advising, fieldtrip opportunities, and has helped me develop my leadership skills,” stated Daisy Antunez. “It has also helped me learn to communicate better and figure out how to get my thoughts across,” she continued. “I would not have been successful at YVC without MESA. The program and connected me with my advisor and has helped shape my future goals,” she continued.

In addition to her classes and job schedule, Antunez participates in campus activities. She is active in the MESA and Engineering student clubs and has also expressed an interest in joining the Pre-Med club.

She is on track to graduate in June 2017 with her associate in science degree. She then plans to continue her education at YVC taking pre-requisite courses needed for medical school.

YVC is one of six community colleges in Washington State that offers the MESA Community College Program. The goal is to increase the number of community college students who successfully transfer to four-year intuitions and earn bachelor’s degrees in STEM majors. YVC’s program provides educational support services and professional development experiences.