|
 LISA
HARRIS Age 22
Prior to graduating from high school, Lisa enjoyed
varsity softball and volleyball, and had been accepted at UC Davis, when her
life took a little turn. She began experiencing numbness in her arms and
legs, which led to a long path of various treatments prior to being
diagnosed with CDIP, a rare neurological disease. Lisa came to GCC in order
to continue her studies while being able to stay at home with the support of
her family. However, fatigue remained her worst enemy.
At GCC, Lisa enjoyed Gordon Alexandre’s history course,
saying, “He gave me energy.” Sid Kolpas heard about her and talked her into
joining the AMP Program (Alliance for Minority Participation) for students
interested in math, sciences, and engineering. She states that the group
“opened her horizons with various experiences and opportunities.” AMP led to
volunteer hours which she did at Whittier Elementary School, where her
brother teaches 3rd grade. She volunteered there for 2 years, tutoring
kindergarten and 3rd graders in reading. Lisa was an SI leader for Alexandre,
and also for math classes with Kolpas and Gary Massion, and economics with
Mark Maier. It is little surprise that she was named SI Leader of the year
for 2002. She also credits SI staff member Ann Reed for her amazing help and
support.
Due to her own experiences, Lisa is determined to
become a doctor and medical researcher. She remains goal oriented, yet
realistic, about the limitations of her illness. In summer ’03, she did an
internship at Occidental College in science research, studying shrimp and
bacteria. The experience reconfirmed her decision to continue on her path to
either neurological or cancer research. With the help of GCC staff, Lisa is
still evaluating her transfer options for fall ’04. |
