Karishma Desai came to RCC as a Rockingham County Early College High School (RECHS) student. A love for learning and the RECHS experience lead Desai to discover a passion for science.  “Being at RCC has allowed me to really figure out who I am and having the opportunity to be a RECHS student is one of the best experiences that I have had,” she explained.

Desai, whose academic average is currently a 3.972, is on track to earn both an Associate in Science and an Associate in Arts this spring. When asked about motivation, Desai shared that her family challenges her and the challenge increases her desire to learn even more.

When nominating Desai for the honor, Associate Professor of Chemistry and Developmental Mathematics, Melissa Totten, wrote, “Over the last two years, I have been Karishma’s advisor and she is one of the most mature and intelligent early college high school students I have worked with,” said Totten. “For each meeting, she comes prepared with her schedule and has taken the time to research her field of study and transfer requirements. Karishma plans to attend medical school to become a surgeon, and I have no doubt that she will be successful.”

In addition to being a dedicated student, Desai is a member of three honor societies and tutors in RCC’s Learning Center for biology, chemistry, and mathematics. She participates in campus activities through Science Club, Spanish Club, and is a member of the RECHS Academic Challenge Team.

“I am pleased to know that all of my hard work has paid off,” said Desai of receiving the award.