Maria Paula Vasini works full-time and takes a full load of classes all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. If that weren’t enough, as a Broward College student she actively participated in extracurricular activities and volunteering. This remarkable student was also named as a semi-finalist for the Jack Kent Cooke Transfer Scholarship, one of the most prestigious scholarships available to students.

Vasini, 21, from Venezuela who is an international relations major, is the public relations officer of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society MuMu Chapter on Central Campus, a member of the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Club and the Political Science Club.

Her achievements were recognized when she was named to the Summer 2023 and Fall 2023 President’s list for carrying 12 or more credit semester hours and obtaining a 4.0 grade point average.

She credits her involvement with the Honors College as one of the most meaningful experiences she’s had while attending Broward College.

“Overall, thanks to the Honors College, I have been able to enhance my research and writing skills, while also building relationships with my professors who have supported me professionally and academically,” she said. Through the Honors College, Vasini participated in three research projects including an in-depth analysis of the immigration policies in the U.S. from 1965 to present day; the effectiveness of international organizations in conflict resolution and peacekeeping; and climate change’s consequences on the economy.

Vasini also successfully completed the Certified Student Leader Program offered by Broward College, which consists of attending three leadership seminars, completing journal entries and passing the soft skill exam. Additionally, she was an intern in the Professional Enhancement Program (PEP), which pairs interns with successful alumni and mentors in their chosen career field. Through the program, she engaged in various networking opportunities with guest speakers.

She plans to continue her educational journey and major in international relations, with future dreams of starting an organization that supports immigrant families.

She hopes that by sharing her experience, she can be an example of how community college is a great opportunity that unlocks more doors to higher education.

“I want to share with my story and demonstrate that hard work, determination and constantly looking for and finding the right resources can help us succeed,” Vasini said.