Dorianny Gutierrez
Central Piedmont has given Dorianny Gutierrez the opportunity and resources to chase her dreams of becoming a successful professional.
Dorianny came to the United States from Zulia, Venezuela, four and a half years ago, without knowing much English. The 16-year-old began studying incredibly hard so she could get into college.
“With English not being my first language, there were so many things I did not know how to do, such as the college applications, SAT, FASFA, and RDS; the list goes on.” Thankfully, Central Piedmont awarded her the Presidential Scholarship. This scholarship helped Dorianny significantly, not only by alleviating the financial and emotional stress she was experiencing, but also by helping her grow as an individual.
“The Presidential scholarship has given me the opportunity to mentor and assist other students with their educational journey” said Dorianny. In addition to being exposed to others’ stories, Dorianny appreciates how Central Piedmont provides its students with valuable resources, such as career services, service learning, workplace learning, and many others in order to succeed and persist. “As an immigrant, Central Piedmont has provided me with tools I’ve needed to achieve my dreams. The small classes allow me to get to know my peers and instructors, leading to deeper connections for more sustainable relationships.”
Dorianny graduated in May 2022 with an associate degree in accounting and finance and is taking everything she has learned at Central Piedmont, out into the community. Currently, she works as Business Development Specialist in Prospera, a non-profit that provides technical assistance to Latino entrepreneurs to establish or expand a business. Supporting 150+ induviduals needing business guidance, coordinated over 30 educational seminars, and targeted over one million dollars in capital towards small businesses. “Today I look back and feel very proud of that confused 16-year-old who did not know how to manage the system. This path was not easy at all, but with the right motivation, people, and tools, you will succeed.”