In two informational sessions, the Pittsburgh Hispanic Development Corporation (PHDC) presented in Spanish the study opportunities offered by the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC), successfully encouraging members of the Latino community to enroll in academic programs.
By Carlos Roa
The Pittsburgh Hispanic Development Corporation held two informational events in Spanish during August to showcase the academic opportunities available at CCAC for the region’s Hispanic community. The first event gathered 22 participants, while the second welcome 7. All attendees received information in their native language about available majors, affordable tuition, and CCAC benefits such as scholarships and discounts for Allegheny County residents. Two representatives from the college led the two-hour session.
A Successful Effort
“It was a success because it opened a world they didn’t know existed. Many were unaware that they could access scholarships and earn a degree recognized nationwide,” explained Aurora Pinto, PHDC’s Employment Manager.
A week later, a second session was held, focused on student registration. There, seven participants enrolled in academic programs beginning this semester and in those starting next year. Fields of interest included psychology, culinary arts, accounting, social work, and radiologic technology. One Venezuelan attendee from the first session has already started his studies as an X-ray technician after working as a photojournalist in his home country. “Many immigrants are looking to reinvent themselves,” said Pinto.
English, the First Tool
In addition to promoting access to higher education, PHDC continues to offer English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, taught by CCAC instructors at the organization’s Beechview headquarters. According to Pinto, PHDC always emphasizes the importance of learning English as a key step toward successfully entering the job market.
These programs are held in the evenings twice a week for a semester, offering beginner and intermediate levels, and provide participants with a certificate from the Community College of Allegheny County—all at a very affordable cost.
These activities are part of PHDC’s Career Advancement and Workforce Development Program, which aims to support Latinos in their integration into the U.S. labor market through education and access to new professional opportunities.