This #PassionWednesday, we celebrate Student Assistants through Ann Marie De Oca. Loud and proud to be a Student Assistant, she shows us all that our circumstances are not challenges but opportunities.
Motivated by her family, Ann became a student assistant to support her education while gaining valuable work experience. Assigned to the College Library at the Learning Resource Center, she finds joy and purpose in helping students and improving her communication skills. For Ann, being a student assistant is more than just a means to support her education—it’s a badge of honor and a journey of growth. As an AB Psychology major, Ann is passionate about mental health and sees both her studies and student assistant role as ways to build confidence and communication skills.
Outside the library, Ann is a storyteller. Inspired by a passion for photojournalism, Ann has been a photojournalist since her early days in high school. She enjoys taking photos of places and events that leave a lasting impact, believing that photography is more than just a skill—it is a way to document history and emotion. Her love for visual storytelling led her to join Sidlak, the official publication of the College of Arts and Sciences, where she continues to develop her craft and showcase her potential as a photojournalist.
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To her, it is more than just a picture—it reflects a moment that matters. She sees photography as a tool for preserving memories, allowing her to look back on her journey and appreciate the experiences that shaped her. For her, photography is a medium that allows her to connect with people and empathize with their stories.
Ann plans to continue working as a student assistant until her fourth year. She keeps herself focused by reminding herself that all her hardships will lead to her success in the future. Ann remains steadfast in her belief that with hardships come success. Her work strengthens her empathy, and ability to connect with others.
Every struggle has made her stronger and more determined to reach her goals. Ann’s advice to aspiring student scholars is, “If you want to pursue your goals, grab the opportunity.”