June 2010
Q: When were you involved in MESA and how did you hear about it?
A: I joined MESA my first year in college at Sacramento City College in 2001.
Q: How did MESA affect you?
A: Wow in so many ways! All I can say is (center directors) Mr. Mai Gemu Johnson and Michael Carney are the best! MESA provided me with the educational tools like learning workshops, National Society of Black Engineers Conferences, time management seminars and other tools that really gave me the skills, understanding and focus to achieve the success I have today.
Q: Was there something MESA offered that particularly helped you with your classes or major?
A: Yes all the wonderful workshops and seminars made available. I also became a tutor for the club which allowed me to retain my understanding of subjects, because you remember 97% of what you teach.
Q: What is your degree in?
A: My A.S is in mathematics and I also hold a B.S in statistical sciences with an actuarial science concentration.
Q: What do you do now?
A: I own my own educational services company, DHurn Enterprises, in which I provide, professional speaking, math coaching and a GPA makeover program for middle school, high school and college level students.
In addition this program has a summer camp that takes place in Solano County. Last year we helped more than 60 students increase their GPA significantly.
Q: What advice do you give other students in math, science or engineering fields?
A: Join MESA, get tools like the GPA Makeover Program online to help you achieve your goals without becoming overwhelmed. Get your class syllabus a month before class and prepare ahead of time for your classes.
Q: Were you the first person in your family to go to college? If so, how does that feel?
A: I was the first to graduate! My parents are more than proud, and my sisters and brothers live through me. If I can do it so can anyone else!!!
Q: What does MESA mean to you?
A: MESA means everything to me. It was the bridge between my goal of becoming an actuary and the challenges along the way, but I did it!!!