Say hello to Gianna, a senior from Warwick, Rhode Island, who’s double majoring in Political Science and Public Administration. She’s a first-generation college student, just like nearly half of all RIC students, and an emerging leader on campus. She’s gonna tell us about the many opportunities she’s had to connect her coursework to experiences outside of the classroom. Gianna, you’re up.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. I was adopted from Guatemala as a baby, and it’s something that’s always influenced how I see the world. My education at Rhode Island College has helped me turn what I’ve learned in the classroom into real life change and inspired me to give back to my community. At RIC, learning happens both inside and outside the classroom. When I interned at the Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging, I was a policy analyst for the state’s only pharmaceutical assistance program for older adults. I also interned in the United States House of Representatives in Washington, D.C., helping with constituent concerns, meetings and day-to-day tasks. I wasn’t just reading about government programs, I was seeing firsthand how policy can improve people’s lives. Currently, I serve as the sole student representative on the Rhode Island Council on Post-Secondary Education. RIC has given me the confidence and the education to sit in a room full of state leaders and know that I have something valuable to contribute. In this role, I’m using what I’ve learned in my political science and public administration classes to advocate for thousands of college students across the state. On campus, RIC has given me so many ways to get involved and lead. As president of the Political Science Club, I help create space for students to have open conversations about current events, civic engagement and real issues that matter to us. RIC really encourages building communities where every student’s voice is heard. At Rhode Island College, creating change doesn’t have to start after graduation. It starts here and now. Through my classes and field work, I’ve gained the academic background and skills to make a difference, and I’m ready to bring these skills with me into law school. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Gianna, we are so impressed by how you’ve stepped up to leadership roles, both on campus and off. Rhode Island College truly believes in the power of experiential learning with students doing internships, clinical rotations, practicums, and independent or faculty-led research. Gianna, you are proof that those experiences matter. Great work.
Meet Israa, he’s living his dream of studying psychology after immigrating to America. And as you’ll see, he’s not your typical college student. Israa is gonna show us Howard Island College provides unique support to English language learners as well as adult students who are balancing work, family and school. Okay, Israa, tell us your story.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. I’m a husband and a proud father of two of beautiful daughter. Coming back to school was my dream for more than 20 years. I’m originally from Egypt and always want to study psychology in the US. Choosing Rhode Island College has truly been one of the best decisions of my life. When I moved three years ago, my wife encouraged me to apply to RIC, where she studied years ago. I was worried that as an older student with a wife and children, I wouldn’t fit in, but so many RIC students are just like me, adults balancing work, family, education. The community is very supportive of our unique needs. At first, English felt like a nightmare. I was afraid I wouldn’t understand the lectures or succeed in classes, but RIC, it changed everything. My professors support me with accommodation and encouragement, making me feel capable and confident. RIC even has a program called Project Excel, which provides academic support to multilingual students. The tutoring services helped me translate material and understand complex topics. I never feel left behind. RIC makes me believe that language is not a barrier when people totally want you to succeed. At RIC, diversity isn’t just a word, it’s a way of life. As a Muslim student, I have always felt respected and included. During Ramadan, my professors even allowed me to leave class early to break my fast. That simple act showed me real understanding and kindness. RIC gives me more than an education, it gives me confidence, community and new dream. I’m planning to continue with my Master’s degree here at RIC and hopefully a PhD. The college showed me that it’s never too late to make your dream real. Back to you, Alex.
– Congrats on making your dream happen, Israa. So many students are busy working adults and RIC offers flexible programs tailored to their needs. There’s even an online Bachelor of Professional Studies program specifically designed for people over 25 who started college but never finished. You’re truly an inspiration, Israa, and thank you for sharing your story.
Okay, class is in session with Sarah, a senior Secondary Education major. Rhode Island College was founded as a teacher’s college in 1854, and its Feinstein School of Education and Human Development remains on the cutting edge of teacher preparation nationwide. Let’s hear all about how RIC set students up for success. Sarah, you’re up.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. After graduating high school, I attended a large university. I knew being an Education major was the right fit for me, but the school wasn’t, so I made the decision to transfer Rhode Island College, a national leader in teacher education. I was nervous about the shift from a large university to a small college, but I soon found that it was the perfect fit. The smaller class sizes made it easy to connect with my classmates and establish relationships with my professors. RIC also made the transfer process easy. I immediately met with counselors who helped me apply and see what courses to transfer and what my plan of study would be as a Secondary Education and English major. The School of Education here is a real community. Taking classes with the same people each semester helps me stay connected to people who have the same passions as me. Our program focuses on getting us in front of the classroom as early as possible. RIC has connections with schools all over the state, so I’m gaining experience and learning from a variety of teachers. My classroom experiences have opened doors to so many opportunities beyond campus, like working at the YMCA Summer Camp. I also taught sixth graders for two summers through a program called Generation Teach and tutored students through Teach for America and Coaching for Change. I’ve even applied what I’ve learned to coaching youth softball. Being an Education major has strengthened my relationship with my community and gives me opportunities to meet and work with students and teachers from various backgrounds. The education program has prepared me for the jobs I’ve had and will continue to prepare me to teach full-time after graduation this spring. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks for the lesson, Sarah. We’re confident that you’ll go on to join the legacy of award-winning educators who graduated from RIC. In fact, over the past seven years, five RIC graduates have earned the Milken Educator Award known as the Oscars of Teaching, and maybe you’ll be next, Sarah. Thanks again.
Let’s get to know Shane, a junior from Rhode Island, majoring in Marketing with a minor in Digital Media Production. Coming to Rhode Island College has been a transformational experience for Shane thanks to the vibrant campus life. At RIC, there are more than 65 student organizations to keep things lively. Ready for your closeup, Shane? Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. As a commuter student, I always thought Rhode Island College would be where I would go for classes and then go home, but the lively campus life I discovered has allowed me to branch out of my comfort zone, make new friends, and discover all the student organizations and activities that RIC has to offer. When I was a freshman, I honestly wasn’t sure how I’d balance my personal health and school, but the resources here really made the difference. The Recreation Center, which all students have access to, became a huge part of my routine. Between freshman and junior year, I lost 75 pounds, and the Rec Center was a big part of that. It’s well equipped with anything you could need, including a weight room, cardio machines, a pool, and even an indoor track. What really surprised me though was how much campus dining supported my goals. No matter what kind of diet you’re following, whether you’re looking for high protein meals, like myself, plant-based options or just healthier everyday choices, Donovan Dining Center has something for you. Access to the Rec Center, flexible dining, plus the physical and mental health services at the Center for Health and Wellness all make it so easy to stay on track. Truthfully, I never planned on getting involved on campus, but joining our college’s television station Anchor TV completely changed my experience. By sophomore year, I became vice president, which gave me new leadership opportunities and introduced me to so many new friends. Being involved has helped me feel connected. RIC has given me the tools I need to succeed both in and out of the classroom. I’ve grown, discovered new passions, and built friendships that’ll last a lifetime. I can’t wait to see where everything I’ve learned takes me. Alex, take it away.
– Shane, it’s great to see you breaking out of your comfort zone and getting engaged in campus life at RIC. Who knows? Maybe after all your experience at Anchor TV, we might recruit you to work on The College Tour. Keep up the amazing work, Shane, and thank you for sharing your story.
Let’s hear from Judy, a sophomore double majoring in Environmental Studies and Anthropology. She had to overcome some pretty big obstacles just to get to college, but once she arrived at Rhode Island College, she truly found her place. The support network she’s discovered on campus has empowered her to do things she never thought were possible. You’re up, Judy. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. As a foster youth, my path to college was anything but traditional. That’s why I’m so grateful for the supportive community and unique opportunities Rhode Island College gives me. I went from thinking I wouldn’t attend college to having the ideal college experience. Growing up in foster care was difficult. I moved every year until high school. My focus was always on survival, so I didn’t think college was an option for me, especially because of the cost. The statistics were against me too. Only 3% of foster youth finish college in four years, but RIC offers a unique scholarship for foster youth, which allowed me to embrace my college experience and remove financial burdens. I even have an on-campus job. Thanks to the scholarship, I live on campus without worrying about paying for books or meals. RIC has a Learning for Life Office that helps students overcome obstacles through graduation, whether those obstacles are in school or in life. Learning for Life in financial aid supported me through it all and helped me navigate college when I needed it most. Now, even as a double major, I have a 3.8 GPA. Before RIC, it was hard to find a place where I felt like I belonged. Through campus involvement like the Environmental Club, I was able to build my confidence and find passions I never knew I had. I’m actually the vice president now. I’m also involved in student community government in the Anthropology Club, which brought me lifelong friends, amazing connections and so much joy. RIC welcomes me with open arms. I have a newfound sense of happiness and I feel like I really belong here. I’m proud of where I am today and I couldn’t have done it without RIC’s support. Back to you, Alex.
– Judy, your perseverance is incredible. RIC is truly a special place where so many students have discovered opportunities that they didn’t know were available to them. You’re a powerful example of what RIC students can achieve with the support of their campus community. Keep up the great work, Judy, and thank you for sharing your story.
Let’s explore academics with Tess, a senior Social Work major who loves Rhode Island College. How much does she love it? She’s already committed to staying for her Master’s degree after graduation. RIC’s average class size of 18 and a 14:1 student to faculty ratio makes it easy to develop meaningful relationships with faculty mentors. Tess, please tell us more.
– Thanks, Alex. You’re awesome. When I was in high school, I was connected with a social worker who made a huge impact on my life. She saw the potential within me and pushed for me to study Social Work at Rhode Island College, just like she did. I was set on RIC after finding out about their five-year Bachelor of Social Work to Master’s of Social Work Accelerated Program, which allows students to start their Master’s during their final year of their Bachelor’s. This was huge for me as it meant I could graduate from a nationally renowned social work program with a Master’s in just one additional year. I could save on a year’s worth of grad school tuition, enter the workforce a year earlier, and be more competitive with an advanced degree. What was once a dream is now a reality. I’m in my first semester of the accelerated program and I give a lot of credit to my faculty mentors. RIC’s small class sizes make it easy to build personal relationship with professors, ask for letters of recommendations, and get support. My professors genuinely care and are passionate about helping overcome barriers outside of the classroom. And the best part, I didn’t have to pay tuition my last two years because of RIC’s Hope Scholarship, which allows eligible in-state students to graduate with a four-year degree with the last two years tuition-free. This allowed me to have financial independence as well as graduate with my Bachelor’s debt free. With the money I’ve saved, I now live in an off-campus apartment with my friends, making it easier for me to live and work in Providence after graduation. With my Master’s, I hope to work in a high school and support students who are just like me. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Tess. Whether it’s the Northeast Neighbors discount, which reduces tuition by 40% for students from eight Northeastern states, or the Open Textbooks Initiative, which has saved students over 1 million in textbook costs, it’s clear that RIC is dedicated to making college more affordable. Go get that Master’s, Tess. Thanks again.
Let’s catch up with Jesus, a U.S. Air Force veteran from Massachusetts whose lifelong curiosity for machinery led him to AIM. Jesus shares how the discipline, skills, and technical mindset gained in the Air Force transitions seamlessly into aviation maintenance. With AIM’s experience, instructors, and real world training, veterans find a strong pathway into civilian aviation careers. Jesus, take it away.
– Thank you for the introduction, Alex. Since childhood, I was always taking things apart, wiring up batteries, trying to understand how machines work. That curiosity led me to the United States Air Force as an army system technician, where aviation became the perfect outlet for my passion, my discipline, and hands-on drive. When I joined the Air Force, I didn’t fully understand the job I’d signed up for. I just wanted to be around aircraft and electrical systems. But I was exposed to aviation at a whole new level, which ultimately shaped the direction of my life. After completing my service, I developed a wide range of skills in electrical work, welding, construction, automotive repair, and even aquarium filtration design. Eventually, I realized that I wanted a career that brought all my abilities together in a structured meaningful way. That led me to AIM, where I could merge everything I’d learned into a solid foundation. What I love most about AIM was the staff. They weren’t just instructors, they were technicians and contractors with real world experience. They brought aviation to life, answered every question, and focused on what actually matters in the field. It was practical, honest, hands-on training. Aviation maintenance isn’t just about turning wrenches, it’s about learning the language of the job. You work with the aircraft maintenance manual, the illustrated parts catalog, the fault isolation manual every day. The more you use them, the more everything starts to click. AIM helped me turn that repetition into confidence, giving me the mindset I need to keep growing in this industry. AIM takes pride in giving you the foundation to keep growing. And even as I get old and gray, I know I’ll have the flexibility to keep learning and earning new certifications. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Jesus, thank you. Your journey from armament systems technician to civilian aircraft mechanic is inspiring. Your story highlights how AIM’s practical training and mentorship help veterans translate military skills into aviation careers. Your commitment to lifelong learning shows exactly what this industry is all about. Well done, Jesus.
Say hello to Hussam, who discovered aviation through a family friend and instantly knew AIM was the right fit. Hussam highlights AIM’s hands-on approach where students move from classroom theory straight into the hangar. From inspecting aircraft components to learning precision techniques, this training shows how AIM prepares students for real careers. Fill us in, Hussam.
– Thank you, Alex. What’s up, everyone? I never thought the aviation maintenance would be what I wanted to do until a close family friend introduced me to it. He thought AIM would be the perfect fit, and honestly, I couldn’t agree more. The moment I stepped on campus, I genuinely fell in love with it and never looked back. At AIM, it makes sure you’re ready for the field that gets you out of the classroom and into the hangar to be hands on with everything. I just started here a few months ago, and I’m already doing some really cool things. My favorite thing I’ve done in the hangar so far was inspecting parts for deep scratches, which we might not be able to see with our own eyes. We clean the part, add a special type of dye to it, and eventually spray a fluid that shows where the scratches are, which shows us what parts may have to be fixed or replaced. I feel confident with every part of the aircraft because instructors walk you through each step from start to finish. This staff makes me feel like I’ll be fully ready for the field by the time I graduate. I’m so happy with my decision to come to AIM. Every day, I walk into class feeling like I made the best choice for myself. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me adapt to new things so I could succeed. AIM gave me something to look forward to, something meaningful to work on, and something worth investing my time in for a better future. At AIM, you’re not just reading from a textbook. They actually show you the ropes and teach you what it takes to become a successful aviation mechanic. That’s all I got. Thank you, Alex. Back to you.
– Great job, Hussam. Your excitement for learning and the confidence you’ve already built really shows how AIM’s hands-on instruction helps students grow fast. Whether it’s inspections, lab work or teamwork in the hangar, your experience reflects AIM’s commitment to real world training. And we cannot wait to see your aviation career take flight. Thanks again, Hussam.
Let’s welcome Tia, an AIM graduate from Montclair, New Jersey, who made a bold mid-career transition after years in different fields. Her story shows how AIM’s flexible schedules and supportive instructors helped her juggle work, family, and school. Ultimately, earning her an Airframe & Powerplant, or A&P license on the very first attempt. AIM proves it’s never too late to start over. You’re up, Tia.
– Thanks, Alex. A few years ago, I decided to change my life. After 15 years at the U.S. Postal Service, in eight years as an office manager at a charter high school, I knew I wanted something more meaningful. I’ve always loved working with my hands and solving problems. So at the age of 40, I decided to enroll at AIM and pursue a career in aviation maintenance. What motivated me wasn’t just wanting a better paycheck. I wanted a career I could be proud of, and one that showed my kids it’s never too late to start over. AIM made that possible. Their flexible evening classes allowed me to balance school, work, and being a mom all at the same time. The training at AIM was hands-on, and every day I felt myself getting closer to a new future. When I graduated and passed all my federal aviation administration exams on the first try, it became one of the proudest moments of my life. The day I held my Airframe & Powerplant license, I knew that every late night and every study session had been worth it. That accomplishment opened the door to an entirely new career. I now work on transport category aircraft, and every shift reminds me of why AIM structure and training matters. They didn’t just teach me skills. They prepared me to step confidently into an industry that demands precision, perseverance, and purpose. My experience at AIM changed my life. It opened doors I never imagined possible, professionally and personally. It even inspired me to continue my education, pursue a bachelor’s in aviation maintenance management, and consider a master’s in aviation safety. AIM didn’t just train me for a job. It helped me rewrite my story. That’s my journey. Back to you, Alex.
– What an inspiring journey, Tia? Your determination, balancing parenthood, full-time work, and training shows exactly what perseverance looks like. Graduating, passing every FAA exam on the first try, and now maintaining transport category aircraft demonstrates how AIM prepares students for real careers with purpose. Congratulations, Tia. Your success shows others what is possible.
Let’s get to know Kevin from Puerto Rico, whose early love for custom cars and hands-on work guided him toward AIM. Raised by a single mother, affordability and value shaped his educational decisions. Kevin highlights AIM’s financial accessibility, student resources, and leadership opportunities, like serving as a student ambassador, while progressing through Airframe & Powerplant training. Kevin, the floor’s yours.
– Appreciate the intro, Alex. Hey, everyone. I grew up in a custom car shop back home in Puerto Rico, so maintenance and customization have always interested me. Some of my earliest memories of holding paint guns and watching my family bring cars to life. School wasn’t always a priority, but taking things apart and fixing them always had my full attention. As the youngest of three, being raised by a single mother, I learned how important it is to get the most value for my dollar. So when the time came to choose where to study, finances were a major factor. AIM was close to home and truly affordable, so it was a no-brainer, and felt like the place to build my future. I was right. I’m currently in block 6 of 17, completed my general training and passed my Federal Aviation Administration general exam. Now, I’m in Airframe training, and after that, I’ll move into Powerplant. As I move through each block, AIM has supported me every step of the way. There’s so many resources to help students succeed, like tutoring, career services, one-on-one support from instructors, student services, and a wide range of financial options. I’m also a student ambassador, so I help plan events, share ideas, and bring forward suggestions from my classmates. Stepping into a leadership role has given me a new perspective, and I’m grateful to represent and support the student community here. It’s helped me grow not just as a student, but as a person. Balancing a full-time job and full-time studies makes it tough to think too far ahead. But my focus is simple, finish school and earn my Airframe & Powerplant license. With the support and guidance at AIM, I know I’m on the right track. Back to you, Alex.
– Kevin, your story shows that an accessible education can transform a student’s future. From balancing full-time work and training to stepping into leadership as a student ambassador, you embody the AIM advantage. With determination and support, your path to earning the A&P license looks stronger than ever. Great job, Kevin.