When Brianna Joslyn first stepped onto the Irvine Valley College (IVC) campus, she was a young single mother rebuilding her life after leaving an abusive marriage. Balancing the responsibilities of parenthood with the challenges of being a first-generation college student, Brianna found hope and belonging through the supportive community at IVC, especially in the EOPS/CARE/CalWORKs programs, which provide academic, financial, and personal support for students facing economic or family-related challenges.
“I received incredible support not only as a single mom but also as a survivor and a first-generation college student,” Brianna recalls. “The guidance of Fawn Tanriverdi, Karen Kobzeff, Dr. Parisa Soltani and the entire EOPS team empowered me to pursue my educational goals and not give up despite my circumstances.”
Through CalWORKs, she discovered workshops tailored for single parents, work-study opportunities, and educational counseling that helped her regain confidence. But it was the people—counselors and staff who saw her potential—who made the biggest difference.
“There were moments when I felt like giving up,” she says, “but the encouragement I received from counselors and staff like Dr. Parisa Soltani, Mina Nawabi and others kept me moving forward.”
One act of kindness stands out in her memory: “Elizabeth Cipres, our former Dean of Counseling, took time out of her busy schedule to write me letters of recommendation for my transfer applications. That meant so much to me.”
Brianna went on to earn associate degrees in Liberal Studies and Sociology from IVC before transferring to California State University, Fullerton, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Sociology. Along the way, she gained eight years of professional experience at IVC as a work-study student and project specialist—experience that helped shape her future.
Today, Brianna serves as a part-time counselor at IVC’s English Language Center (ELC), which helps adult learners strengthen their English skills and pursue educational and career goals. There, she guides students much like the counselors who once guided her. “It’s truly amazing to be back,” she says. “Supporting students as they pursue their dreams is one of the most rewarding experiences.”
Her return to IVC wasn’t by accident, it was a dream fulfilled. “I remember telling myself, even as a work-study student, that I would be back as a counselor one day. And now I am.”
Brianna’s journey is a testament to resilience, community, and the transformative power of education. Her advice to current students is heartfelt and simple: “Never give up. Always connect with your counselor and seek out the support you need. There are countless opportunities here at IVC and if no one’s told you yet, let me be the first: I believe in you.”
Looking back, Brianna sums it up best: “IVC means the world to me. I’m deeply grateful for the incredible impact it’s had on my life and my daughter’s. I look forward to continuing to learn, grow, and be part of this amazing community.” For students seeking similar support, IVC’s EOPS/CARE/CalWORKs and AESL programs continue to provide personalized guidance, academic resources, and community connections that help students achieve their goals.