Sharing the good vibes comes naturally for Sergio Acuna.
The Highline student was awarded Student Leader of the Month earlier this year for helping new students adjust to college life. Every month, the award recognizes an exceptional student who has contributed to the college.
The recognition is something Acuna is “super thankful” for. Along with pursuing an Associate of Business degree, he volunteers in Entry Advising where he guides students to “be their best,” by showing them the tools and resources they need to be successful at Highline.
Acuna, aged 24, also advises students to reach out to the “amazing teachers,” who not only want students to succeed in class, but also in their future endeavors.
Another tip he gives students is to participate in the many activities Highline has to offer. He described how having a sense of belonging on campus can lead to academic success. It’s all about finding your “village,” as he put it.
“Whoever you are, find the people who motivate you, who make you more engaging and make you a better human being,” he said.
Having emigrated from the small city of Trujillo, Peru, Acuna is particularly aware of helping incoming Latin American students have a smooth transition and “a fair start” into higher education.
“I know that Latin Americans can be a little bit timid about the language (barrier). So it’s good to give them advice, as a student, in their own language,” Acuna noted.
He described Highline as a “safe place” for Latin Americans who speak English as a second language. Acuna himself has only been speaking English for a year and credits his impressive command of the language to Kareen Malony, Director of Entry Advising.
“(Kareen) gave me the confidence to be out there and to speak up…(and) has provided me with the support I need to learn English as a second language,” he stated.
Working with students from different backgrounds is dear to Acuna’s heart. In fact, Highline’s student population is what attracted him to the college to undertake his studies.
Acuna said, “I chose Highline because of the diversity. I feel Highline College gives me the unique opportunity to have this experience with all of the amazing students from all over the world. I couldn’t pass up that option.”
He described how Highline gives him opportunities he wouldn’t have in Peru, where the ability to afford an education is “a little bit harder.” However, he emphasized that the friendly, vibrant and welcoming Peruvian spirit is something he brings onto campus.
Looking ahead, Acuna plans to pursue a career in business after he graduates next year. He said his business degree will be key for achieving “a better wage and a better living.” One of his dreams is to be his own boss one day.