"Things are not always going to be easy. We might face challenges that we never thought
of, but it is always possible to overcome them and accomplish our goals."
- Shruti Goel
Major: Associate Degree in Applied Science
Student Involvement/honors: 2021 Phi Theta Kappa President at Orchard Ridge campus.
Q: What were your biggest accomplishments?
A: My biggest accomplishments were moving to a new country then moving to a virtual environment and successfully adapting to both. OCC played a huge part in my accomplishments. OCC gave me recognition, PTK, and most of all, the confidence to step out of my comfort zone in a foreign country.
Q: What type of support did you receive from faculty over the past year?
A: Learning via Zoom was quite hard, but it was our professors who made us comfortable with their enthusiasm and communicative skills and encouraged us all along this journey.
Q: What are the next steps for you after leaving OCC?
A: I will be taking a nice little break, hopefully visiting India, and then get back to what OCC has taught us - empowering excellence.
Q: If you had to pick one thing you’re taking away from your experiences over the past year, what would it be?
A: Don’t be shy. You might be afraid that you will be judged, or you will make mistakes, but don’t let it stop you from meeting and interacting with new people. I realized from being in Phi Theta Kappa how significant it is to talk and work with people and learn from them.
Q: From the lessons you learned in the past year, what advice would you give to future students?
A: OCC provides innumerable resources, make the most of them. There is someone on and off campus ready and able to help. Remember to be proactive and confident. Find your niche, get involved, and embrace the change.