Meet Dennis, a proud Yakima native and junior at Yakima Valley College, where he’s pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business. With a strong interest in both agriculture and global business, Dennis is preparing for a future in roles such as consulting, orchard management or international sales. He credits the support of College Success Foundation coaches for helping him navigate the transition to college and develop effective time management strategies. Read on to learn more about Dennis!
What is your hometown?
My hometown is none other than the Palm Springs of Washington, Yakima!
How did you choose Yakima Valley College?
I always knew Yakima had a community college but didn’t really know how anything functioned or how I could even apply. I was advised by CSF staff in high school about the different local college options surrounding the valley, and YVC was on the list. It fit my needs, which led me to its selection.
What is your major (or intended major)?
I am aiming for a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business and hoping to graduate with it this upcoming year, 2026!
What is your dream job?
I would love to start my own band and play as lead guitarist while traveling the world performing for everyone, but I would also love to work with any sort of agricultural department, whether it’s as a consultant or orchard manager, or even as a sales representative to travel the globe!
Any clubs, activities or interests you are a part of outside of class?
I am not involved in any extracurricular activities, but do enjoy working on my own vehicle and listening to all kinds of music.
What has been the most surprising thing for you so far about college?
The most surprising thing about college for me personally has been how fast the years have passed. At the start of my college experience, I thought it’d feel like forever till graduation, and now that I sit here as a junior, soon to be a senior, I can’t fathom just how fast the time has gone by.
What is a challenge you have encountered in college and how did you navigate it? (Or how are you navigating it?)
A challenge I have encountered in college is how to balance my time. The college load can begin to take a toll on you if you don’t articulate your schedule properly; I had to learn that the hard way a couple times. So, I decided to ask others for their methods on time management and rearranged some parts to fit my specific style and situation. I now have a set plan for each school week on what I need to do and when I need to do it. It allows me to stay on track while still having time for myself and other activities!
What student supports / resources have you utilized that have been most helpful to you?
I can’t say how much CSF’s student coaches have contributed to my success in college, from the transition of high school to college, to registration, to changing pathways, to even paying for additional costs I may have! They have helped me understand everything I know about the college system, and with their support, I know the ins and outs of college preparation, which often involves financial aid issues, particularly with FASFA. The way they engage with students and their kind approach really makes all the difference in whatever college standpoint you may find yourself in. It almost feels like talking to a friend other than a superior!
What is one piece of advice you’d like to share with fellow students?
One piece of advice I’d like to share with other students is to make the most out of your college experience. Although your time in high school is over, college is like round 2, but even better because now you have even more free time! Get out there, do your best and be yourself!
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