Rob Ring

Associate in Science

Rob Ring grew up in the Yakima Valley and attended Eisenhower High School before earning his GED. Following high school he worked part-time and enrolled at YVC in 2014. “I chose to attend community college because I wanted to return to school but had no idea what I wanted to study, or what my long-term goals were. University or technical programs were understandably out of the question. I was attracted to YVC in particular because of its low cost, relatively small size, and most importantly its proximity,” stated Ring.

Finding his passion, Ring decided to pursue a science-based degree. “I came to the conclusion after my first quarter that a STEM career might be the best fit for me. I chose the engineering track because I felt it would give me the best chance of success after graduation, but quickly realized that chemistry was my primary interest. I am pursuing both fields of study to keep my options as open as possible,” stated Ring. In addition to his coursework, he has been involved on campus, participating in the Engineering, MESA and Chemistry Clubs.

Ring was selected to participate in YVC’s undergraduate summer research projects. These projects are made possible by a science, technology, engineering, and math grant through the US Department of Education. YVC works in partnership with Heritage University to offer this opportunity to students. He worked with YVC faculty and a group of students in collaboration with Toppenish and Kittitas Wastewater Treatment Plants. The students researched water quality. “Participating in summer research has redoubled my interest in science, honed my practical lab skills, and given me industry connections that would never have been available to me otherwise. I have secured a part-time laboratory job as a direct result of my research experience and YVC Chemistry Instructor Dr. Knickerbocker’s mentorship,” he concluded.

He will graduate in the spring of 2017 with an associate in science degree. He then plans to transfer to a four-year college and pursue a bachelor’s degree.