Student Spotlight: Shania Guzman

• Major: Human Services
• High School: The Heritage School in New York City, class of 2017

When Shania Guzman started taking college classes she was pretty sure she didn’t belong. “I didn’t think OCC or any school was for me. I was eager to go home but that wasn’t an option. That’s when I made the decision to participate in activities and clubs.”

Getting involved changed the course of her academic journey and her life. She became an RA in the residence halls, chairperson of OCC’s Fall 2019 Unity Day celebration, President of the College’s Black Student Union, and a member of a group that focuses on women of color who attend OCC. She also excelled as a student, earning recognition on both the Provost and President’s List honor rolls. “It was amazing. Getting involved introduced me to so many people, gave me opportunities, and prepared me for the outside world.”

In between classes and all of her activities Guzman also completed a 100-hour internship at the Hillbrook Juvenile Detention Center which reinforced her decision to major in Human Services. “After I receive my degree in August I want to transfer to a four-year college and earn my bachelor’s degree in social work. My goal is to be able to open up a rehabilitation center for children, especially for those who have been in foster homes, detention centers, and even incarcerated. I want to help guide them back into society with goals, ambition, and knowledge so they can continue their education and improve their lives.”