Into the Unknown, They Soar
Volume X, Issue 4, August 26, 2024
It is a truth universally acknowledged that Santa Monica College is brimming with
individuals—students, alum, colleagues—who prove first-hand the power of the human
spirit to triumph over all odds and who go on to inspire, well, the rest of us and
the world. For the first issue of the 2024-2025 academic year, SMC in Focus proudly
presents five such stories—of those who survived unimaginable difficulties and tragedy,
but persisted nevertheless. This is SMC. Read. Be inspired.
Never Too Late
Ana Mora survived an abusive relationship and substance use and gained a fresh start in life at Santa Monica College.
Post-Game Strategy
From hoops to standard deviations, Kant and stellate ganglia, this outstanding Corsair has a proven gameplan for personal success.
Fostering Futures
As former foster youth, Sabrina Conner and Shirel Omidi have faced numerous hardships, which they are overcoming through their own resilience and support at Santa Monica College.
No Looking Back for Ma’isha Reid
This dedicated student services specialist & SMC alum deferred her dreams for decades. But she has zero regrets, and stands on the cusp of a brand-new chapter of her life.
Bragging Rights
An opera, advocacy for arthrogryposis, taking a trick horse onto national TV, awards, helping & feeding students, boundary-breaking dance.
Soaring in the Unknown
This Asian-Latina from Ecuador came to SMC with trepidations about the unfamiliar. Through grit and determination, she found courage to flourish in the unknown.
SMC In the News
SMC Among Top 30 Film Schools in North America
WATCH: SMC Fashion Students Show their Creations at LA Mode ‘24
A Journey Through 40 Years of Digital Art
Transfer Students Triumph in the Class of 2024
What Students with Learning Disabilities Need to Know Before Enrolling
Three Grads Share Their Journeys
SMC’s New Homeless Services Work Certificate on CBS/KCAL
Commencement 2024: Highlights