Judith Mendoza

Associate of Applied Science Transfer

Judith Mendoza was born in Aguililla, Michoacan, Mexico. Growing up as one of ten children, Mendoza saw her family struggle to provide enough food and clothing. She completed high school in Mexico and took some accounting courses before relocating to the Yakima Valley with her family. She began working in the agriculture industry as a warehouse worker during apple and cherry harvest. She also worked as a custodian for a local school district.

Wanting more for herself and her family, Mendoza enrolled at YVC with the goal of learning English. “In 2016 I started my journey in higher education,” stated Mendoza. “At this time my goal was simply to learn English. Later my teachers encouraged me to take YVC’s I-BEST program and work toward an Office Assistant Certificate, so I did,” she continued. Not stopping there, Mendoza decided to continue her studies and pursue an associate of applied science degree.

She credits some of her success to the support she has received from the campus community. “The thing that I like the most about YVC is that I have found support along my journey. At YVC many people are interested in the success of the students, and I really appreciate this because sometimes we (the students) feel lost. I would recommend this program and the college in general to others because this is a community committed to helping their students succeed,” she continued.

Judith is graduating with her associate of applied science transfers in business administration this June. In addition, she was recently hired as a Fiscal Technician II in YVC’s Purchasing and Central Receiving Department. She plans to continue her education by enrolling in YVC’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Management program. Ultimately, she hopes to open her own business.