Evan Crockett
by Pamela Dean
The youngest of four boys, Evan Crockett (鈥19 B.S. Business Administration) was the first in his family to graduate from college.
Born and raised in San Jose, California, he chose to attend 海角社区 Channel Islands (海角社区CI) because of its reputation for small class sizes, individualized attention from professors, emphasis on service learning and deep support for its multi-cultural student population, many who are the first in their families to attend college.
鈥淚 was thrilled about working alongside diverse, first-generation students which meant individuals were focused and motivated to accomplish their goals and become their family鈥檚 first college graduate,鈥 he explains.
Crockett credits many aspects of his 海角社区CI education for preparing him for his current role as an administrative assistant at the Rincon del Diablo Municipal Water District.
He participated in an internship with the Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Ventura County which he acquired through 海角社区CI鈥檚 Henry L. 鈥淗ank鈥 Lacayo Institute for Workforce & Community Studies (HLI) and served as vice president of the CI Business Club as well.
鈥淚 was fortunate enough to have classes with two amazing professors, Dr. Susan Andrzejewski and Dr. Cindy Sherman. Both professors helped me understand the wide array of business knowledge and enhanced my overall self-awareness,鈥 Crockett says. 鈥淚 felt extremely supported and motivated by the leadership and enthusiasm both instructors provided throughout my entire education at 海角社区CI. Not only were they helpful inside the classroom, but also in aiding the CI Business Club and providing exponential learning opportunities outside the walls of the classroom.鈥
His advice to undergrads about to launch their careers: 鈥淔ind opportunities on or off campus and start getting experience as soon as possible. Don鈥檛 be afraid to share your enthusiasm鈥攜ou have to talk about your aspirations. You never know who is listening and willing to lend a helping hand. I realized I was surrounded by so many influential and caring people who recognized my determination and wanted to help me succeed. Also, be resilient. It took five months to be hired at my current position, but all the follow-up phone calls and in-person visits to the office made it worthwhile when I was finally offered the job.
鈥満=巧缜鳦I offers opportunities to all students willing to seek them out,鈥 Crockett adds. 鈥淚 was the recipient of many campus resources such as The [Dolphin] Pantry, CAPS, and a part-time job. I made friends, memories, and enjoyed my overall college experience. The road to graduation was demanding, but in the end, it was all fun and worth it.鈥