For Mesa Community College student Anthony Gilbertson, 31, earning a degree might have taken a bit longer than expected, but he never gave up. This month, the proud psychology major will receive two associate degrees and an Arizona General Education Curriculum certificate.

Gilbertson has worked hard to get to this point.

“As the son of a single parent, I grew up lacking the financial stability which makes a college career easily accessible,” Gilbertson said. “But my mother taught me to push hard and always fight for the things that I wanted in life, and though it took me longer than I would have liked, I've been able to finally get the things that I have been striving for.”

Gilbertson worked full time at the beginning of his college career and then switched to working part time at MCC while finishing his degree. Despite his work schedule, he managed to find the time to be involved in several campus activities, including Phi Theta Kappa, Psi Beta and the Astronomy Club.

He was successful academically as well, receiving the MCC and APA outstanding psychology student awards. Gilbertson said he has enjoyed his time at MCC. “The greatest thing about MCC in my experience is that you have access to an exemplary teaching staff, the equal of many state 4 year universities, but at a cost that makes the experience accessible to almost anyone,” Gilbertson said.

“The staff here is extremely supportive, and you can really feel that they are invested in maximizing the opportunities for the success of their students.” Gilbertson lives by these words, “The thing you dream about and envision the most, you always have the power to do." His advice to other students: “Be proactive in your classwork, never be afraid to ask questions or seek help, and always believe in yourself!”