On a beautiful spring day in May of 2022, Galia Amor and her mother made a spur-of-the-moment decision to take a ride to Onondaga Community College and visit campus unannounced. Even though both of her parents attended community colleges, Amor wasn't sure it was the right path for her. During her senior year at Fayetteville-Manlius high school, she had been accepted at four-year schools but hadn't made a final decision yet. The welcoming environment they found during their spontaneous visit made the difference. "We just pulled up and didn't know anybody. I asked a student where the Liberal Arts department was. This student didn't just tell me where to go, they brought me there. I met people working in Liberal Arts and they immediately made me feel very involved. My first day here, I wasn't even a student yet, and I felt like I fit in."
Four months later Amor was taking classes at OCC. She started in the Communication Studies degree program, and her love of cooking led her to add the Culinary Management certificate to her course load. She also became active outside class, and was President of OCC's Anime Club. Through conversations with Shawn Edie who oversees Student Government, Amor decided to run for office and was elected. During the fall 2023 semester she served as the Vice President of Clubs & Training. "I'm a multi-tasker and I always need to be doing something. This was perfect for me. Being in Student Government is fun and puts you out there. It really puts you on the path to success."
Amor was scheduled to graduate in December but decided to return for one more semester. "I really love it here and don't want to leave." When she's not on campus she can sometimes be found working as a lifeguard at the Fayetteville YMCA. As the oldest of 6 children, she knows she's a role model for her 4 brothers and one sister. "They always look up to me and I know how important it is to set a good example."
Amor will complete her degree in May. She plans to transfer to Cornell University and enroll in the culinary degree program it offers in conjunction with the Culinary Institute of America. Her dream is to open her own restaurant which specializes in Caribbean cuisine.
