Our students come to FSCJ from various backgrounds and circumstances, but one thing they all have in common is the desire to improve their lives with a quality education.

We’d like to highlight one of our alumni, Pedro Gutierrez, who was one of the first students to earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biomedical Sciences from FSCJ. Pedro says his experiences studying in the Biomedical Sciences program helped turn his life around. When he began his studies, he had just lost his job and filed for bankruptcy, with three small children and a wife to support. Facing financial uncertainty and with no formal training or degree, Pedro strongly felt that FSCJ was the place for him to succeed.

On his 30^th birthday, Pedro made the first pivotal step in changing his future by attending his first day of classes at the College. He credits his professors with nurturing his academic journey every step of the way.

“It is because of the foundation that your institution gave me that I am now able to make my dream a reality,” Pedro says. “I have experienced firsthand how an education can completely change a person’s destiny.”

After earning his degree from FSCJ, Pedro went on to obtain his Master of Medical Science Physician Assistant degree. He has now opened his own local medical clinic, Health Pro Medical, to help others in need.

We’re extremely proud of Pedro and the tremendous professional progress he has made after his time at FSCJ. Alumni like him are a shining example of what can be achieved with a strong determination to reach your goals.

“’Feed a man a fish, you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and feed him for a lifetime,’” Pedro says. “Thank you for the fishing pole.”

Hear Pedro share his journey as he speaks to the Board at the Florida Capitol.