“DA Voices” is a recurring feature used to spotlight De Anza College’s diverse community voices. We ask the same question to different people and arrange their quotes so that readers can see varying points of view. This week, La Voz reporter Jason Huang asked, “What is something you’re most proud of?”
Jeanette Turatbekova, 21, civil engineering major, said she is proud of her independence.
“Recently, I bought myself an electric guitar. My parents said I shouldn’t buy it, but when else am I going to have the chance to play?” Turatbekova said.
Charly Ghuman, 19, business administration major, said he is proud of himself for graduating high school.
“Evergreen Valley High (School) was really competitive and keeping up with everybody was a big challenge,” Ghuman said. “I took any opportunity for extra help and stayed extra hours after school to make sure I met every deadline.”
Adrian Cordona, 18, business administration major, said he is proud of being able to better support others around him.
“I’m proud of going to college and not only that but getting a job,” Cordona said. “Being able to help my friends, coworkers and family is what I am most proud of.”
Tomer Friedman, 19, kinesthesiology major, said he is proud to be here at De Anza.
“It’s beautiful here and the students here are really great,” Friedman said.
Sal Martinez, 22, electrical engineering major, cited spirituality as something he is proud of.
“Every morning I wake up with purpose,” Martinez said. “Pursuing a deeper relationship with God has helped get through difficult times and I am proud to have made it this far with God’s help.”
Donni Marshman, 38, machining and computer numeral control major, said he is proud to be following his dreams.
“I’m proud of myself for going back to school. I’ve always wanted to go back and finish my degree,” Marshman said. “By coming back, I am choosing not to settle for less.”
Elizabeth Jenson, Disability Support Programs and Services faculty, said she is proud to build on her relationships.
“Recently, I connected with my old friends. It took the passing of one of them for us to really reconnect and make plans to spend time with each other,” Jenson said. “Now we are planning trips across the country. We are healing together.”
