NAME:
Andrew McVay            

AGE:
29          

HOMETOWN:
Miami, FL

MAJOR:
Economics

LBCC ORGANIZATIONS, CLUBS OR SPORTS AFFILIATIONS:
President’s Ambassadors, Phi Theta Kappa, Veterans Club, Honors Program, and History Club.

 

Q: How long have you attended LBCC?

A: Since Summer of 2015

 

Q: Why did you decide to attend LBCC?

A: When I was in the process of deciding where to begin my higher education, I was in between LBCC and Santa Monica College. After serving 8 years in the Marine Corps and being out of school for nearly 9 years, I wanted to make sure that I would be able to easily adapt back into the civilian sector. I can’t say that I did a lot of research into choosing which school to attend. Ultimately, I decided to attend LBCC because a good friend of mine who I served in the Marines with suggested I join him at LBCC. LBCC is a veteran-friendly school and the staff and whole Veterans Support Organization community made the transition process simple.

 

Q: What were your expectations when coming to LBCC?

A:  First and foremost, I set expectations for myself. I expected to enroll into LBCC as a full-time student and excel in all of my classes. In regards to LBCC, I expected to be in a learning environment where professors, staff, and students alike committed themselves to professionalism and dedication in their respected positions. I have been very impressed with the determination from my peers and the caliber of professors and resources that LBCC has to offer.

 

Q: What does LBCC mean to you?

A: Initially, I saw LBCC as a portal to my entry into a university. I kept to myself for the most part. However, during the fall semester of 2015, my English 1 professor, Mrs. Moreno recommended me to the school’s Honors Program. This gave me the confidence I needed and I applied myself to numerous extra-curricular activities. My attitude went from what can the school do for me to what can I do for the school and the surrounding community. It sounds so cliché, but I really mean it when I say that LBCC is my home away from home.

 

Q: Who is your role model?

A: My little Puerto Rican grandmother. She was the strongest person I have ever met. During my time in the service, she always kept me in her prayers. I remember when I was a little boy and she had very little money I said, “Grandma I’m going to buy you a car when I grow up.” I kept my promise to her because I loved her. She exemplified the qualities of a good leader. By example, she taught me that integrity and moral character are the key ingredients for peace within oneself. If my future wife is half the woman my grandmother was I would consider myself blessed.

 

Q: What is your biggest passion?

A: I’m majoring in economics. However, my passion doesn’t involve spreadsheets and supply and demand graphs. I choose to major in economics to get a better understanding of policies and choices that affect the welfare of all people. I have a fighting spirit and I’m always taking the side of the underdog. My passion is to earn a law degree, pass the California bar exam, and provide affordable quality representation for those of less fortune. I have a passion to help people less fortunate than myself. In terms of hobbies, I have a passion for the arts and collecting vinyl records.

 

Q: In what way have you made an impact at LBCC?

A: I feel that I have made an impression at LBCC with my fellow students. Many of the younger students have asked me about my experiences in the Marines and I’ve always been willing to answer their questions. I understand that for most students it’s a very pivotal time in their lives. I make it my goal to remind them that there are people in other parts of the world that do not get the opportunity to get an education. In a sense, I encourage them to take their studies serious and not for granted. I believe that the students are a direct reflection of the school. With a school as diverse as LBCC, it is important to work together to help each other succeed in a world that is much divided. I am an advocate for collectivism.

 

Q: How has LBCC shaped you into your best self?

A: I’ve learned a lot about myself while attending LBCC. Recently, I’ve learned that I’m not that great in calculus. More seriously, my experience at LBCC has enabled me to be more open-minded and optimistic. I enjoy classes that involve student interaction because once upon a time I was very close-minded to opposing viewpoints. I have become more understanding.

 

Q: What advice would you have for new LBCC students?

A: Join a club, attend school events, and don’t be intimidated by professors. Education is a serious pursuit but don’t forget to have fun as well. Also, if you plan on driving to school I recommend purchasing a parking pass.

 

Q: If there is one thing LBCC has taught you, what would it be?

A: LBCC has taught me that closed mouths don’t get fed. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and voice your opinions.

 

Q: Where do you see yourself in the future?

A: In the near future I see myself attending a UC, UCLA fingers crossed. I see myself earning a bachelor’s degree in economics and attending Law School at Pepperdine University.

 

Q: What is one thing you would change about your experience here at LBCC?

A: I would have used the resources that the school provides more often. Specifically, the Math     Center. Tutoring services are great.

 

Q: What are your professional goals?

A: My long-term professional goal is to get involved in national politics. I want to see what really goes down behind closed doors.

 

Q: What do you plan to do after you leave LBCC?

A: After I complete my education at LBCC I would like to take a week vacation to Haiti. I have a good friend that retreats there yearly. I would like to experience that before attending a university.