OCC Alum’s Inspiring Journey of Perseverance and Success
“Who would have thought that someone like me—who once struggled to speak English—would one day win multiple awards in graduate-level competitions?”
Roel Becerra, DVM, MAM, PhD, reflects on his remarkable journey since first studying English as a Second Language at Oakland Community College (OCC) 18 years ago. A dedicated learner, Becerra balanced working a variety of jobs while steadily earning an impressive lineup of degrees, starting with an Associate’s in Science from OCC. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s in Animal Science from Michigan State University (MSU), a Master’s in Animal Science from North Carolina State University, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Purdue University, a Master’s of Avian Medicine and now, a PhD in Comparative Biomedical Sciences from the University of Georgia.
Raised on a farm in Zacatecas, Mexico, Becerra was one of nine children who helped his family raise chickens and pigs and grow grapes. From an early age, he loved animals. At age 18, he moved to the U.S. didn’t speak a word of English. He joined his father, who was living in Pontiac and working in construction. Becerra spent a few years as a carpenter, then received his diploma at Pontiac Central High School.
“I wanted to prove to myself, my community and the people who believed in me that anything is possible with hard work and persistence,” he said.
Striving for excellence
After receiving his high school diploma, Becerra began taking ESL classes at OCC, where counselor Alicia Paramo-Dionne, who spoke Spanish, became his mentor.
“Roel has achieved so much – he is truly one of the most remarkable students I have encountered in my 30 years at OCC,” shared Paramo-Dionne. “We bonded with our shared culture. I took him to MSU and set up a tour for him. I remember the sparkle in his eyes! I saw his “ganas” – his determination. He has soared to remarkable heights–exactly as I believed he would.”
Becerra credits Paramo-Dionne with encouraging him as he strived for his academic goals.
In 2023, Becerra was honored to receive the Reed Rumsey Award for Advancement of Avian Medicine from the American Association of Avian Pathologists, for outstanding research and advancements in avian medicine. He has also been recognized as a research fellow with the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research; published a case report on the potential relationship of stagnant water and spotty liver disease in free-range laying hens; and, has presented his work at national and international conferences on the topic.
“I’ve learned that the world belongs to those who know what they want and have the courage to go after it,” he said. “To other students, I say, ‘Never give up! You may struggle, but the sky’s the limit!’”
Soaring to new heights with passion
Sarah Lemelin, one of Becerra’s OCC ESL instructors, said that he was always upbeat with that can-do attitude and an indomitable spirit.
“He has an endless drive to learn. Given that it takes considerable time and effort to acquire enough proficiency in a second language to do college-level coursework, his progress was quite dramatic,” Lemelin said. “I think our students are all superheroes, and Roel is a great inspiration to our current ones.”
Now living in Atlanta, Becerra’s next goal is a Master’s of Business Administration, which he plans to complete in 2026. His ultimate objective is to open his own veterinary practice, or work for a pharmaceutical company in a leadership position.
He says his passion for animal science and veterinary medicine has become more than a career: it’s his calling. It drives him to learn, grow and give back to his community and the field of veterinary health.
“OCC gave me the foundation, inspiration and the tools to succeed,” he said. “My thanks to all the amazing professors at OCC. You believed in my potential when it was just starting to take shape, and that belief changed my life!”
About OCC
Oakland Community College offers more than 80 degree and certificate programs with the resources students need to be successful and advance our community. As a top transfer institution, OCC offers one of the state’s most affordable tuition rates and flexibility in scheduling. The College is nationally recognized for its high-demand career training and expert faculty in their fields. More than 1 million students have enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.
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