Eishale Pierson: A Journey of Resilience, Passion, and Purpose

Eishale Pierson’s story is one of perseverance, self-discovery, and unwavering determination. A proud graduate of Riverside City College (RCC) in 2020, Eishale’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of education and community.

From RCC to Cal State San Bernardino

Eishale began her academic journey at RCC in 2013. During her time there, she majored in math and science, initially aspiring to pursue meteorology. However, her passion for storytelling and communication soon emerged, leading her to also study communication and mass media. Her hard work paid off when she graduated with three associate degrees: Humanities, Communication, and Mass Media.

Following her graduation during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Eishale continued her education at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB). There, she majored in Communication Studies, focusing on news media and broadcasting. In 2024, she proudly earned her bachelor's degree, gaining valuable experience in journalism and storytelling.

Eishale credits much of her success at CSUSB to her professor, Jessica Vierra. “She really pushed me to the finish line,” Eishale shared. “Her support, guidance, and belief in my abilities kept me motivated, even when things got tough.” Jessica’s mentorship made a lasting impact, helping Eishale cross the final hurdles to achieve her goals.

Thriving in Campus Life

At RCC, Eishale immersed herself in campus life, joining the Black Student Union (BSU) and serving as secretary for three years. Through BSU, she helped organize events such as Black Thanksgiving and student recruitment activities, leaving a lasting impact on her peers. Additionally, she was a standout athlete on RCC’s track and field team, where she broke personal records in the 100- and 200-meter events, despite overcoming challenges like a torn meniscus.

Eishale’s time at RCC was filled with fond memories, including the support of influential professors and counselors such as Dr. Monique Greene and Dr. Woods. She credits them with providing guidance and encouragement during pivotal moments in her academic journey.

Professional Growth and Aspirations

Currently, Eishale works as a member of the street team for 96.7 KCAL Rocks, promoting events and engaging with the community. This role has allowed her to gain hands-on experience in public relations and communications while staying connected to her passion for media. She dreams of combining her skills in journalism and meteorology, aspiring to work as an on-air personality delivering news, weather reports, and traffic updates.

Advice for Current Students

Reflecting on her journey, Eishale offers advice for current and future RCC students: “Get the full experience—join clubs, get involved, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your professors. They’re here to help, and utilizing their support can make all the difference.” She emphasizes the importance of balancing academics and fun, encouraging students to prioritize their studies while enjoying their time on campus.

A Lifelong Connection to RCC

Eishale’s time at RCC not only shaped her academic and professional path but also led her to personal milestones. She met her partner during her final semester at RCC, and together they have continued to support each other’s goals and dreams. Eishale remains grateful for the foundation RCC provided and hopes to return one day to further her studies in journalism.

With her infectious enthusiasm and steadfast commitment to her goals, Eishale Pierson embodies the RCC Tiger spirit. Her story serves as an inspiration to students navigating their own paths, proving that with perseverance and passion, anything is possible.