Lisa Hoang

After spending four years in the Marine Corps, Lisa Hoang wanted to “realize her full potential” by returning to college. After researching community colleges located near marine bases, Lisa decided to move to Oceanside and attend MiraCosta College.

When Lisa first enrolled at MiraCosta she majored in kinesiology. However, she soon changed her mind after enrolling in an art class.

“I knew I had art talent but I didn’t think that art could be a career goal,” she explains. “The wonderful faculty and staff at MiraCosta made me realize I could study art and later find solid work as an artist.”

Lisa earned an associate degree in art in spring 2008 and transferred to San Diego State University, where she studies art with an interior design emphasis and is pursuing a minor in psychology.  Besides earning her degree, Lisa also earned quite a distinction when she was selected as MiraCosta College’s 2008 Student Worker of the Year.

“I was really surprised to be chosen.  I was employed through the Veteran’s Services Office, which I really enjoyed.  I was able to help students, many of whom came in after being in the military and needed guidance.”

MiraCosta’s Veteran’s Services Office provides assistance to veterans and their dependents who may be eligible for various educational benefits.  Lisa says the office provides students with help in a safe, warm environment, much like other MiraCosta services.

“What I love most about MiraCosta is that I never felt brushed off when I needed help.  Every place I went on campus I felt welcomed and I always got the help I needed.”