Kervin Franco is now a staff member at Albertus Magnus College in the Registrar’s Office, but his journey began in his undergraduate years after moving to the United States from Colombia. The Finance and Business Management Double Major expected to face challenges, knowing English was not his first language. The Albertus community supported him in his college transition.
“I chose Albertus for three reasons. In the beginning, I started playing soccer, which was a big thing for me. It was also close to home, and it’s a small school. So to me, these are important in making the transition better when the professors can help you more compared to a bigger school.”
Professors like Alan DelFavero made the biggest impact on his Albertus experience, along with staff like Earl McCoy Jr. and Kobey Smith of Career Services.
“When you’re around the right people, they make you feel comfortable with who you are, and that’s important.”
Kervin’s sense of community extended beyond the walls of the college. One of his fondest memories as an Albertus student is his volunteer work in Jamaica. Kervin had the opportunity to work with entrepreneurs who wanted to open their own shop. He helped with everything from communication to laying out a solid business plan.
What’s next for Kervin? He is currently pursuing his Master of Business Administration Degree (MBA) at Albertus as he lays out his next career move. Kervin is also keeping a partnership project in the restaurant industry under wraps, and looks forward to sharing his plans soon.
His career advice for Latinx students at Albertus: if you are willing to do what it takes to get to the next level, you will.
“Sometimes as Latinos or minorities, we feel more pressure than other people do. We have to be focused and encourage ourselves to accomplish the things that we want. No matter if things are difficult or more work for us, we are able to achieve anything that we really want to do.”
What does being Latino mean to Kervin?
“Being Latino means that you are proud of yourself and the traditions that make us who we are.”
Find more spotlights and Latinx Heritage celebrations at Albertus here.
Learn more about Kervin’s story here.