College Notebook
Great Expectations
The following students have more than just The Honors College in common. They exhibit dedication, strength and perseverance – key attributes that make great leaders.
Passion for Education and the Community
Odalys Solares moved to the United States from Cuba in 1998 with her parents and brother. The experience served to instill the importance of family to the young woman.
The Best Choice
Born and raised in Miami, Richard Shutes chose to study at The Honors College because it was simply the best choice.
The Budding Humanitarian
Stephanie Jiménez has already accomplished a great deal by the age of 19. A political science major and a student in The Honors College, Jiménez has attended the Model United Nations in New York City, participated in the student government program in Washington, D.C. and attended the Salzburg Seminars in Vienna.
The Courage to Start Fresh
For Michael L. Johnson, who was in the final stages of alcoholism and homelessness, enrolling in Miami Dade College was a first in many steps he took toward a better life.
Economist and Environmentalist
Yevgeniya “Eva” Litvineko, a native of St. Petersburg, Russia, and a Miami Dade College honors student, is passionate about the environment and plans to dedicate her life to helping preserve it.
A Launch Pad for Greatness
Four years ago, Rudy Joly emigrated from Haiti to Miami for a better life and to continue his education.
A Legacy of Strength
Greta Calvo comes from a long line of independent Cuban women. Her grandmother was a respected lawyer and outspoken political activist and instilled in her family a powerful sense of self-respect. Calvo – a Miami Dade College psychology student – is inspired by her story every day. As she puts it, “my grandmother owns a big piece of my heart.”
Changing Minds, One at a Time
Tamara Millo learned through experience that an education changes a person’s life. From Cuba in 1969 to The Honors College at Miami Dade College in 2008, Millo’s story inspires students to follow their dreams, even if deferred.