Alumni Success Stories

Sherrina graduated Rio Hondo College Fall 2023 and will be starting the next step of her educational journey this Spring at California State University, Dominiguez Hills. Sherrina was a dedicated student leader, she served as a founding member of both the Black Student Union and Black Scholars Program. She was active in Hope Scholars and served as a Student Ambassador. As a survivor of domestic violence and a single mother, she demonstrated her resilience and grit in completing her studies and serving in a professional capacity as the Student Success Coach for Hope Scholars and Educational Equity Programs. When faced with housing insecurity, Sherrina utilized grant funded partnerships such as Hope Scholars and East Los Angeles Women’s Center to identify housing support for her and her sons. Sherrina is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and plans to obtain a master’s degree in counseling & student services.

Leonor was an active member of Hope Scholars and EOPS/CARE. As a single mother, she works full time to support her daughter while maintaining enrollment as a full-time student. Through her time at Rio Hondo College, Leonor has persevered through domestic violence, housing insecurity, and parenting in a pandemic. Through her work with Hope Scholars and the basic needs program, she was approved for permanent supportive housing. But persevere, she did. She maintained a 3.8 GPA and was recognized at her Spring 2022 Commencement Ceremony as an exceptional student. Leonor is a tremendous role model to her daughter, and us all. She is currently attending California State University, Los Angeles where she plans to pursue her bachelor’s and master’s in social work.

Bailey was raised by a single mother, with the help of his aunts and grandparents. He graduated from Applied Technology Center in Montebello with a very low GPA, many teachers didn’t think he would graduate, let alone continue to higher education. When he came to Rio Hondo, he wanted to prove to them and himself that he was capable of success. He devoted his time to his courses and got involved on campus. His first semester, he earned a 4.0 and realized that he could continue- and he did. Bailey was an active member of EOPS, Guardian Scholars, Peer Advisory Leaders, and served as the Treasurer of the Associated Students of Rio Hondo College, all while working, helping care for his young siblings, and maintaining a 4.0 GPA. Bailey transferred to the University of California, Berkley, where he completed a double major in Social Welfare and Legal Studies, studied abroad, participated in research fellowships, served as a law fellow at Davis Polk- and kept his 4.0 GPA! He is now a Business Development Analyst.

Former EOP&S/CARE and CalWORKS student, Yarisma transferred from Rio Hondo College to the University of Southern California (USC) as a Norman Topping Scholar. Yarisma was a single mother who maintained the highest standards of academic excellence while serving as the sole provider and caretaker for her young daughter, who was sadly diagnosed with leukemia. Yarisma stayed by her daughter’s side, traveling to Children’s Hospital regularly while also maintaining enrollment as a student. Yarisma’s daughter is now cancer-free! Yarisma has completed her degree at USC and is currently serving her community as the City Planning Commissioner for the City of Pico Rivera.

Pariss Youngblood, a Rio Hondo alumnus, exemplifies an extraordinary transition from a dedicated student to a key figure in the United States Air Force and Space Force. His journey, marked by unwavering commitment and exceptional skills, showcases inspirational leadership. Pariss’ academic achievements include a Sociology degree from Rio Hondo following a Summa Cum Laude Bachelor of Science in software technology. He is currently advancing his expertise with a master’s in software technology.

At Rio Hondo, Pariss stood out as a top student and a Student Trustee, beginning his path of impactful leadership. In the Air Force, he quickly rose to the top 2%, earning accelerated promotion to Staff Sergeant within three years, reflecting his dedication and leadership prowess. His technical understanding was further honed through the Assured Access to Space Supra Coders program, where he gained comprehensive coding skills, directly enhancing the operational capabilities of the Air Force and Space Force.

Pariss’s breadth of skills is evident from his graduation from the Airman Leadership School, earning the Commandant’s Award for outstanding leadership. His role in the U.S. Space Force has been crucial in advancing mission-centric technologies. Beyond this, Pariss actively contributes to community service, leading youth STEM programs to foster the next generation of space enthusiasts.

Pariss Youngblood’s story is a testament to his unyielding dedication, exceptional talent, and visionary leadership, making him a distinguished figure in both his professional achievements and contributions to technology, security, and education.