Lupe Brito attended Wenatchee Valley College 2017-2019.   She graduated with Associate of Arts and Sciences and an Associate of Business in 2019. 

Why did you choose WVC?

Being a first-generation Latina and coming from a low-income family, attending college was going to be a financial hardship. I was between Wenatchee Valley College and attending a four-year university like Washington State University. At the time, I was unsure of what field of study I wanted to pursue, so financially, the best decision was to stay at community college and transfer after. WVC was a great choice to get my prerequisites out of the way and figure out what I wanted to study. In 2019, I graduated with my Associate of Arts and Sciences and an Associate of Business. From there, I transferred to WSU, graduated in 2021 with a bachelor's degree, and even better with $0 in student debt.

What is your fondest memory of your time at WVC?

I have many fond memories of my time at WVC, so it's hard to pick. If I had to narrow it down to two, it would be CAMP and studying abroad in Costa Rica.

CAMP was beneficial in navigating my first year of college. CAMP allowed me to open myself to new experiences, network with people, and make new friends. After my first year in college and CAMP, I became a mentor. I enjoyed being able to help incoming students navigate through their first year of college in the same way I was helped.

2018, I received a month-long scholarship to study abroad in Costa Rica. It was an experience I will never forget, and I'm grateful for it. This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone as I traveled alone to a new country.

What are you doing now (i.e., career, community boards, etc.)?

I am currently the Development Director for the Wenatchee Valley College Foundation. I manage annual giving, alumni relations, and business relations for the Foundation. I am excited to be back at my alma mater, where I can contribute to the Foundation's growth and help serve our students and community. Fun fact: As a student at WVC, as part of a class assignment, I job shadowed Brenda Galvan, WVC Foundation accountant, and now I get to work with her! It's a full-circle moment.

How did WVC prepare you for the future?

WVC prepared me with the necessary resources to complete my Associate of Arts and Sciences and Associate of Business and excel at a four-year university. From mentors to academic advising to studying abroad, WVC set me up for success. Faculty like Yuritzi Lozano helped me navigate my first year of college, and faculty like Maria Navarette encouraged me and helped me apply for a study abroad scholarship. WVC has faculty who genuinely care about the success of their students, and I'm grateful to now form a part of it.

Any advice for current WVC students?

My advice would be to get involved on campus. Whether it's through student clubs, attending campus events, volunteering, etc., you never know who you'll connect with. Don't be afraid to try something new and step out of your comfort zone! Be bold and ask for help, as many have been in the same position and are willing to help.