Myron Soyangco's journey into higher education began with disappointment. 

After his parents suddenly announced in 2008 that his family would be moving from the Philippines to California, Soyangco had a decision to make. He had just graduated from high school in his home country with a stellar academic record, but it was too late to enroll at a four-year American university as he’d wanted to. His choices were to redo his senior year in high school (“and who wants to do that?” he says) or enroll at Irvine Valley College.  

Irvine native Aleyna Luick arrived at Irvine Valley College (IVC) lit by a spark of curiosity and the determination and resilience to stay focused on developing a clear vision for her future. A first-generation student herself, she had heard the college described as a “transformative experience” by high school counselors and former classmates alike.

For third-year Irvine Valley College (IVC) biology and chemistry student Steve Salinas, success is not just about grades — it’s about creating opportunities, building connections, and giving back to the community. With plans to graduate this spring with an associate degree in biology (Steve already holds an associate degree from IVC in chemistry), this first-generation college student is well on his way to a career in medicine.