Riverside City College Alumnus Reflects on Journey of Resilience and Success as a Counseling Technician where she holds the title of “RCC Mentor”

Riverside City College (RCC) proudly highlights the inspiring journey of Darcy Marquez, a June 2023 graduate who exemplifies the transformative power of education and support. As a first-generation Latina and former foster youth, Darcy achieved an extraordinary milestone, earning four Associate of Arts degrees, with her primary focus in Sociology, during her year and a half at RCC.

Darcy credits much of her success to RCC’s Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) and Guardian Scholars. These programs helped her access the resources she needed, ensuring she could avoid out-of-pocket expenses for essential materials like textbooks. Darcy’s story underscores RCC’s commitment to fostering student achievement and breaking barriers for underserved communities.

During her time at RCC, Darcy immersed herself in the campus community. Through work-study positions, she served as a tutor with the TRIO Upward Bound program and as a peer mentor with the college’s Student Tutorial Services. These roles allowed her to give back to fellow students while developing her skills and passion for mentorship.

Now pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Counseling & Social Change, Darcy continues her journey as a Counseling Technician at Gateway College and Career Academy (GCCA), the charter high school located on RCC’s campus. Her career path reflects her deep commitment to empowering others, particularly through student support programs like EOPS, which she holds close to her heart.

“RCC and the RCCD district have been a source of tremendous growth and opportunity for me,” Darcy shared. “The support and sense of community I found here shaped my academic and personal journey. I am proud to be a product of programs that uplift students in need.”

Darcy’s story is a testament to RCC’s dedication to providing accessible, supportive, and transformative education. Her journey inspires current and future students, reminding them that resilience and community can lead to extraordinary achievements.