Whether they are transferring to universities, launching new careers, or simply enjoying the beach, Suffolk County Community College students shared their exciting plans for summer and life after graduation.
Christian Bianco, 21
Liberal arts
Graduating from Suffolk will mark an important milestone in my academic journey. The degree I earn represents not only years of hard work and dedication but also personal growth and resilience.
Throughout my time at Suffolk, I have developed strong study habits, built meaningful connections and gained a clearer understanding of my future goals.
After graduation, I plan to transfer to Stony Brook University to earn a bachelor’s degree. I feel both excited and motivated to take the next step. I want to work in a hospital as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant.
I look forward to new opportunities and challenging myself academically while continuing to grow as an individual. At Stony Brook, I hope to expand my knowledge and move closer to my long-term career aspiration: opening my own PT business.
Graduating and transferring are not the end of my journey — they are the beginning of a new chapter.
Charlotte Corry, 20
HVAC
I’m excited for this summer for a couple of reasons. First, I’ll be celebrating my 21st birthday in July. I also plan on going to the beach and actually getting a nice tan this time. And I’m going on a hike with a bunch of friends and taking a day trip to New York City. I’m also looking forward to visiting my grandma and aunt in Pennsylvania.
While I tend to be a quiet person, I’ve managed to branch out and build a few meaningful connections, including my friend Hayley and several classmates I met while taking courses on the Brentwood campus.
My career goal is to get a well-paying job in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry, where I can sharpen my technical skills. Ultimately, I have my sights set on working for the Coca-Cola Co. I’ve always been interested in how their soda machines operate, and refrigeration is currently the only component of those machines I don’t know how to fix.
My backup plan is to do electrical work for homes or do air conditioning for homes and businesses.
Next semester, I’ll be taking classes at both the Ammerman and Grant campuses.
Xavier Behrhof, 32
Liberal Arts
Next semester, I will be changing my major to veterinary science to work toward my associate’s degree in applied science at the Michael J. Grant Campus. Starting this program has been exciting but also overwhelming, especially with the adjustment to a different, sometimes confusing campus. I’ve been relying on my 1999 Volkswagen Passat, Oliver, to get me to class, and I’m thankful to have him with me on this journey.
This summer, I’ll be preparing for this next chapter while also making time to enjoy myself. I’m looking forward to swimming, going on walks, working out and taking small road trips. I also plan to work and save money.
On Sundays, I visit the Bellmore Flea Market with my friend, where we find good deals and enjoy hot dogs and soda. It’s a simple routine, but it helps me stay grounded as I move forward.
Terrence LaRochelle, 28
Nursing
Terrence LaRochelle, a returning Suffolk student graduated as a licensed practical nurse in 2024 and is continuing his journey in nursing as he works towards becoming a registered nurse. He plans to further his education by transferring to Capella University after graduating in May.
LaRochelle says his time at Suffolk taught him resilience and perseverance.
“No matter how hard the day gets, you just have to keep pushing and work hard,” he said, recalling a time he made a comeback in a nursing course by earning a 100 percent after struggling.
He plans to take the National Council Licensure Examination this summer and hopes to begin working as a registered nurse in the mental health field.
LaRochelle said one of the most meaningful parts of his experience was the relationships he built. “The friends I made here are my people, my lifelong friends. That’s what I’ll miss the most,” he said.
– Dajaka Mills
Michael Anthony Woisin, 24
Journalism
As my time at Suffolk comes to an end, a new chapter of my life begins. Receiving Suffolk’s Stay on Long Island Initiative scholarship has been a true honor and blessing as I will further my education at St. Joseph’s University, majoring in English with a concentration in Adolescence Education.
After graduation, there I will pursue my dream of becoming an English literature teacher and inspire future generations as they had inspired me over my academic years.
My experience at Suffolk has taught me lessons far beyond the classroom. Serving as Editor-in-Chief of Compass News has helped me grow as both a leader and communicator.
I am especially grateful to my family as well as my professors, Carl Corry and William Burns, who pushed me to reach my full potential and supported me both academically and personally, encouraging me every step of the way. Their mentorship has shaped the educator and person I aspire to become.
Suffolk will always be the place where my journey truly began and for that I am forever thankful.