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CALL FOR ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS AND UPDATES
We Want You! Interested in telling us your story or sharing a new promotion/change in life/engagement/ marriage/new family member? Let us know. We want to hear from you for our upcoming newsletters, or maybe you know outstanding PAC Alumni who deserve recognition!
If you're interested, then email Daniel Uresti at duresti@alamo.edu. |
Contact Information:
Rosie Castro Interim Dean of Student Affairs & Director of the Center for Academic Transitions mcastro66@alamo.edu Jane Velasquez Community Outreach Coordinator jvelasquez13@ alamo.edu Daniel Uresti, Jr. Interim Coordinator for Alumni & Scholarships duresti@alamo.edu
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Alumni Spotlight...Ericka & Israel Lopez
Ericka Lopez
Bachelor of Science - Interdisciplinary Studies, Texas A&M University - San Antonio
**South San ISD Teacher of the Year 2012 - Price Elementary
Israel Lopez
Bachelor of Science - Interdisciplinary Studies, Texas A&M University - San Antonio **South San ISD Teacher of the Year 2011 - Palo Alto Elementary
What were the factors that influenced your decision to attend college and earn your degree?
Ericka: I realized early in life that you cannot depend on anyone for financial security. Without a degree my career choices were limited. Growing up in a single family household I watched my own mother struggle to make ends meet. Getting married and starting a family at age 18, I felt the hardship of making ends meet and wanted to empower myself.
Israel: Right out of high school I attended college with no success and I dropped out after three semesters.
After I was married and we had our first child, I returned to school, but due to regretful circumstances I did not continue. My wife and I decided to get an education to provide a better life for our daughter and son. By now I was doing well in retail but realized that was not what I wanted to do in life. My wife and I pursued an education to better ourselves financially and emotionally.
What was your major, and why did you choose to study at PAC?
Ericka: My major was Elementary Education and I chose Palo Alto because it was close to home and the campus staff was helpful and friendly. Taking advantage of the work study program allowed me to become a part of the Palo Alto College Community.
Israel: Originally my major was in Psychology but I eventually changed to Kinesiology with a support field in psychology. I chose to attend PAC because of its convenience and closeness to home.
What were the greatest challenge(s) you had to overcome in order to complete your associate's degree?
Ericka: Most definitely developmental math. I struggled with all my math classes, and lived in the SLAC (Student Learning Assistance Center). I realized that just showing up to math class wasn't enough. I really needed extra help to overcome my lack of fundamental math skills.
Israel: Juggling a family, wife, and kids and going to school full time and working 50 plus hours and at the same time trying to maintain a decent GPA was by far the greatest challenge to overcome in order to complete my Associate's.
What PAC instructor or staff member made a difference in your experience at PAC and why?
Ericka: That's a tough one because it was the overall college experience that made the difference not just one person. I have a deep appreciation for Professor Marcotte, her love of teaching and her passion in the classroom made me want to be a role model to my future students.
Israel: There were many instructors at PAC who made a difference in my experience. By far Mr. Oliver Jones had the most influence. He is a great instructor and perhaps the person who directly changed my personality. Thanks to Mr. Jones I was able to overcome my fear of speaking in front of people. As a result I am able to achieve greater goals in my career.
What one memory stands out the most from your experience at PAC?
Ericka: I really enjoyed being a part of the Student Leadership Institute. I learned valuable leadership skills and met many students with different majors. Above all, I enjoyed the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C with over forty students from all of the Alamo Colleges. It was a once in a lifetime experience.
Israel: The one memory that stands out the most in my PAC experience is one that is connected with Mr. Jones. Our history assignment was simply to gather information on a topic and present it to the class. My topic was on the Civil War. I was nervous about speaking in front of my colleagues but I collected my information and I studied it until I memorized what I needed to present. When it came time to go up and present my paper I froze. I was not able to speak and I went blank. I could not remember anything about the Civil War and so I proceeded to walk away. Mr. Jones politely stepped in and asked me not to walk away. He proceeded to ask me questions about my topic and since I had studied I was able to answer them. After a few short questions I was able to continue with my presentation. I can still recall the feeling of ease I had inside me as I began to realize that speaking in front of people was not the end of the world. A couple of years later I personally thanked Mr. Jones for not letting me walk away that day. Thank you again, Mr. Jones!
What are you most proud of since leaving PAC?
Ericka: Earning my BS in Education from Texas A&M-San Antonio, I am giving back to my community and I currently work for South San Antonio Independent School District. I was the first person in my family to earn a four-year degree. Now my own daughter is attending Palo Alto College.
Israel: Since leaving PAC I am most proud of sticking with it. When things got hard and it seemed like quitting was the best thing to do, someone was always there to support me.
If you were in a room of PAC students, what would words of wisdom would you give?
Ericka: Above all, do not get discouraged. Life is challenging and no matter how long it takes to finish your Associate's degree, the time will pass you by, so don't give up. Get involved with campus organizations. Everyone from your counselors to your professors wants you to succeed. Believe in yourself.
Israel: Wanting to go to school and stick with it is not enough. You need a strong support system and PAC has such a system. Things will get tough; and when they do look up to God and thank Him for putting you where you are, then go look for help in the system.... God will provide! |
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CALL FOR ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS AND UPDATES
We Want You! Interested in telling us your story or sharing a new promotion/change in life/engagement/ marriage/new family member? Let us know. We want to hear from you for our upcoming newsletters, or maybe you know outstanding PAC Alumni who deserve recognition!
If you're interested, then email Daniel Uresti at duresti@alamo.edu. |
Presidential Search Update: Finalists Announced
Dr. Ernst Roberts II will be interviewed and hold a public forum today, Aug. 30, from 4:15-5:15 p.m. in Pedernales 109.
Dr. R. Michael Flores will be interviewed and hold a public forum tomorrow, Aug. 31, from 4:15-5:15 p.m. in Pedernales 109.
Ernst E. Roberts II, Ed.D.
Dr. Ernst E. Roberts II was employed at El Paso Community College (EPCC) in 1978 as a teacher in the Department of Psychology. He became a tenured faculty member and over the years moved into various senior-level administrative positions. He currently serves as Interim President of EPCC. Dr. Roberts has been active in Boy Scouts during most of his life. An Eagle Scout in his youth, he has continued to provide adult leadership for the Boy Scouts.
He received his B. A. in psychology and pre-medicine at West Virginia University, his M. A. in psychology from The University of Texas at El Paso, and his Ed. D. in higher education from Texas Tech University.
Click here to see Dr. Roberts' resume.
Ruben Michael "Mike" Flores, Ph.D.
Dr. Ruben Michael "Mike" Flores has 19 years of experience in higher education, with 13 years at Palo Alto College (PAC). He came to PAC in 1999 to direct the college's institutional research, strategic planning, and resource development programs - and has accepted progressively responsible leadership positions since that time. These have included Dean of Institutional Effectiveness and  Community Development, Vice President of College Services, and Vice President of Student Services.
Currently, Dr. Flores is serving as Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs at PAC.
A native of San Antonio, Dr. Flores earned a B. A. in political science from The University of Texas at San Antonio, an M. S. in political science from Illinois State University, and his Ph. D. from The University of Texas at Austin's community college leadership program. Additionally, Dr. Flores has served as a fellow with the American Council on Education, the Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities (HACU), and conducted postgraduate study at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Click here to see Dr. Flores' resumé. |
The Palo Alto College Alumni & Friends Association has selected a new logo to represent the Association. Look for our new logo on campus and within the community. We're excited at our new branding initiative and would love to hear your feedback! |
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ACCD August Student of the Month
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Flor Semersky with Vincent Bosquez, PAC Coordinator of Veterans Affairs |
Flor Semersky was selected as the ACCD student of the month by La Prensa Foundation. She is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and currently serves as the inaugural President of the Student Veterans Organization (SVO) and as an active member of the Sigma Lamda Honor Society and Student Services Fee Advisory Committee. She hopes to work with veterans to assist them with their transition to civilian life and help educate them on the services and benefits available from the Veteran's Administration.
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Sembradores of SA Sign Gift Agreement with PAC
Los Sembradores of San Antonio signed a gift agreement with Palo Alto College and the Alamo Colleges Foundation to provide ongoing funding for student scholarships. The educational endowment will have a lasting impact on our community and our students.
The Sembradores of San Antonio Educational Foundation promotes and funds higher education for deserving students in the San Antonio metropolitan area. To date, it has raised and donated in excess of $1.4 million to its educational endowment funds and scholarships. |
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San Antonio Alternative Housing Corporation
San Antonio Alternative Housing Corporation's (SAAHC) mission is to provide decent rental and ownership housing that is affordable to low and moderate income people in Texas; to provide housing education and ownership counseling through a community home ownership association; and to promote and create business development, job training, health and social services.
For more information on the San Antonio Alternative Housing Corporation, please visit their website. |
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Taste of the Riverwalk - Sept. 11 - 13
Enjoy sampling of culinary offerings from participating River Walk establishments, over a 3-day period. Limited tickets available. Organizers say that this event will sell out. Click tickets for a list of participating restaurants.
 | | Video from Taste of the River Walk 2011 |
September 11, 6:00pm - September 13, 11:00pm
For ticket information, visit the Paseo del Rio website. |
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Catch Me if You Can
 - The Broadway musical "CATCH ME IF YOU CAN" flies into San Antonio for a limited engagement at the Majestic Theatre October 23-28. Tickets are on sale now. Based on the DreamWorks hit film and the incredible true story that inspired it, the first national tour of the high-flying Broadway musical CATCH ME IF YOU CAN lands in San Antonio at the Majestic Theatre for eight performances from Oct. 23 through Oct. 28. |
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Festival People en Español - Sept. 1-2
For ticket and event information, please click here. |
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Alumni Volunteer Opportunities
Calling All Alumni
Calling all Alumni - we are seeking volunteers for upcoming campus-wide events, and we need your help.
If you would like to volunteer at our upcoming events, please contact Daniel Uresti, Jr. at duresti@alamo.edu or 210-486-3117. Volunteer your time, network with college staff, and get first-hand experience working with a college department. |
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PASO 5K Run and 1-Mile Buddy Walk
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The Office of Student Engagement and Retention will be holding its first annual PASO 5k Run and 1-Mile Buddy Walk this fall to benefit student scholarships. Stay tuned for more details on how you can participate as runner or volunteer. Runners and non-runners welcome! |
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Become a Deputy Voter Registrar
Election season is here. If you would like information on how to become a Deputy Voter Registrar, please contact Jane Velasquez, Community Outreach Coordinator, at jvelasquez13@alamo.edu. |
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VITA is seeking volunteers
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is seeking volunteers for the upcoming tax season. They offer free training and will give you the experience necessary to help your community while building upon your own skill set. See the benefits below:
*Free Training and IRS Certification
*Promote Tax Understanding and Awareness
*Gain Marketable Skill and Expand Your Resume
*Give Back to Your Community
For more information, visit the VITA website or call Cristina Alaniz at 210-222-2975 for more information. |
Looking For A Job? Let Us Help.
Social networking has become a popular term in recent years. Did you know that 40% of Fortune 100 companies recruit on LinkedIn.com? Are you ready for the competitive job market?
Do you have a professional online profile? 
Do you have a professional email address?
Is your resume up to date?
Do you know how to write a cover letter?
Could you improve your interview skills?
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, come visit our Career Services staff inside the Center for Academic Transitions in room 101 of the Student Center.
Current Students and Former Students Welcome! |
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Optimal Resume has arrived to Palo Alto College
As soon as you create your Optimal account, you'll be able to create career materials, practice for interviews and build your documents into a professional website, which is imperative for today's job search. Because the program is web-based, you'll be able to access it from any computer, any time. We want you to have the tools necessary for today's competitive job market, and we think Optimal Resume will give you an edge. To check out the great features offered please visit https://pac-alamo.optimalresume.com and click "Create New Account." Follow the instructions there to be validated and then create your account.
Please don't hesitate to contact the Center for Academic Transitions at 210-486-3131 if you need any assistance. Also don't forget to try out the "Review Center" feature to send your documents for review by our Career Services professionals! |
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Small Business Academy: Be Your Own Boss
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Student Loan Forgiveness
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Photo from ConsumerCredit.com |
Did you know that there are flexible repayment plans to help you repay your student loans?
Income Based Repayment is a new repayment plan for the major types of federal loans made to students. Under IBR, the required monthly payment is capped at an amount that is intended to be affordable based on income and family size.
If you qualify for IBR and you work in a public service field (teaching, social work, higher ed, non-profit, etc.), you may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Loans will be forgiven after 120 consecutive payments while working full time in a public service position!
To find out more, click here.
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Money 101 - A Guide to Your Financial Life
Check out CNN's Money 101, a step-by-step guide to gaining control of your financial life.
Lessons include Making a Budget, Investing in Stocks, Buying a Home, Planning for Retirement, Health Insurance, Buying a Car, 401K's, and sessions on Health/Home/Life/Auto Insurance.
Click here to see the full list and browse the available lessons. |
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San Antonio Small Business Development Center
Have you heard about the San Antonio Small Business Development Center? Designed with the small business owner experience in mind, your local SBDC provides economically friendly workshops on a variety of business topics. Learn about business planning, business start-up, online and traditional marketing, accounting and finance, e-commerce, technology and more. Receive in depth information from experienced business advisors and guest speakers as they share their insight on topics important to local entrepreneurs in San Antonio and surrounding counties. Free online training is also available. Click here for a full list of training classes and dates. |
Career Link
San Antonio Housing Authority is currently searching for an Homeownership Coordinator to provide information and assistance to participants applying for Section 8, Section 24/9 and Section 32 Homeownership Programs, in addition to recruiting participants for various outreach programs. Click here to view the job description and apply.
South San Antonio ISD is seeking a Substitute Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to implement district school health programs and provide direct services to meet the needs of students and staff under clinical supervision of the school health coordinator or school nurse. Click here for more information.
Rackspace is currently seeking a Network Security Team Lead to be responsible for building and supporting a team of highly motivated individuals in their pursuit of exellence and provide leadership and direction for the delivery of support to customers. For more information, and to apply for this job, Click here.
Edgewood ISD is searching for a CTE Automotive Technology Teacher for the 2012-2013 school year to provide students with appropriate, hands-on, learning activities and meaningful instruction at the Edgewood Career Academy. This position requires a valid teaching certificate and ASE and NATEF certification (preferred). To apply for this job, please click here.
Lonestar Tooling Solutions is searching for four CNC Machinists to produce machined parts by programming, setting up, and operate a computer number control (CNC) machine while maintaining quality and safety standards. 1st and 2nd shift positions available. To apply please contact Benjamin E. Rios via email at brios@toolingsystemsgroup.com. (Applicants needed now!)
Southwest Research Institute is seeking a Cisco & Telecom Technical Specialist to perform the configuration, installation and management of Cisco networking equipment and Unified Communications Systems following Cisco's recommended best practices for IP Telephony/Networking environments, among other duties. For more information, Click here.
Aetna is seeking a Case Manager - RN to utilize a collaborative process of assessment, planning, facilitation, and advocacy for options and services to meet an individuals benefit plan andpor health needs through communication and available resources to promote optimal, cost-effective outcomces.Click here.
The City of San Antonio is looking for a Recreation Instructor performing recreational work involving the creation and implementation of one or more recreational activity programs such as organized sports, music, nature, camping, drama, dance or arts and crafts, on a City-wide basis. To apply for this, and other City of San Antonio jobs, click here. (Closes 9/3/2012)
The Alamo Colleges is hiring! Check out our PeopleLink site to search job postings for faculty, staff, and temporary positions at PAC, SAC, SPC, NVC, NLC, and the District offices. We'd love to have you join our team. |
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About Requesting Transcripts?
Transcripts can be requested online via your ACES account or by filling out a Transcript Request Form. For more information, please visit our Records and Transcripts webpage here.
About Reverse Transfer?
In today's ever-changing working world, the more degrees you have, the more marketable you become. The Reverse Transfer Degree Program is designed for students who have accumulated thirty (30) college-level credit hours at one of the Alamo Colleges and who have received a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited public Texas college or university. Once an official transcript is received documenting a student's bachelor's degree, the student will be approved for and notified if they are eligible for their Associate of Arts or Science Degree. For more information contact Rosie Castro, 210-486-3124 or at mcastro66@alamo.edu. |
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Notice: All job listings are posted at the discretion of the Palo Alto College Center for Academic Transitions. We will not post jobs that appear to discriminate against applicants on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, age, national origin, veteran status, sexual orientation, disability, or gender. We also reserve the right to refuse to post jobs that do not support the interests of the college. |
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