FSW Collier: In Their Own Words
From First-Generation Student to Future Educator: Kimberly Lopez Valle’s Journey at FSW
Kimberly Lopez Valle has always known she wanted to make a difference. Growing up, the support and comfort she received from her teachers inspired her to one day give back to her community in the same way. Born in Honduras, Lopez Valle discovered her passion for working with children early on, and that passion has guided her educational journey at Florida SouthWestern State College.
After earning her associate in arts degree at the FSW Collier Campus, Lopez Valle is now pursuing her bachelor’s degree in elementary education, where her journey began. While at FSW, Lopez Valle even studied abroad in Italy, an experience that deepened her commitment to teaching and solidified her drive to continue her education.
As the first in her family to graduate from college, Lopez Valle credits her parents as her greatest motivation. Their encouragement pushes her to keep advancing, not only for herself but as a way to honor their sacrifices.
Lopez Valle also balances life as both a part-time student and full-time staff member. What began as a student worker position in the registrar’s office during her associate degree evolved into her current role as a registration associate.
“It’s a unique perspective, being both a student and an employee at FSW,” she explains. “It gives me a different way of looking at the college experience.”
The Collier Campus, she says, has been central to her success.
“It’s close to home, it’s a smaller campus, and you build connections, it really feels like family,” Valle shares.
She especially recalls the support of Professor Cindy Quel, who she describes as always going the extra mile to meet her students’ needs.
Her advice to others?
“Go for it. As a first-generation college student, I learned to always ask for help. No matter the department, someone at Collier is willing to guide you.”
For Lopez Valle, the next step is clear: becoming a teacher.
“The education program here is excellent,” she says with a smile. “It has prepared me for the future I’ve always dreamed of.”
Rafael Rosas Arroyo: A Collier County Story of Growth, Grit, and Community
Rafael Rosas Arroyo’s journey is deeply rooted in Collier County. Originally from Mexico, Rafael moved to Collier County as a child and has called it home ever since. He attended elementary, middle, and high school all in Collier, graduating from Lely High School in 2014. Today, he’s earning his bachelor’s degree in Supervision and Management at Florida SouthWestern State College’s Collier Campus.
For Rafael, the culinary world has been his passion for the last 10 years. From 2015 to 2017, he worked as a lead line cook on the Collier Campus, an experience that deepened his connection to FSW and showed him firsthand how important supportive environments are for students. Now, after a decade in the kitchen, Rafael is ready to transition into management and leadership roles in the hospitality industry.
“Every part of my education, from elementary school to college, happened right here in Collier,” Rosas Arroyo said. Education opens doors I didn’t know were there. I want to go to school to better my health and better myself overall.”
His journey wasn’t traditional. He didn’t plan to attend college until the summer before his first semester. But FSW, especially the Collier Campus, welcomed him warmly and made the process feel achievable.
Professors like Dr. Lisa McGarity, Michael McGowan, Jim Langlas, and Dr. George Harvey played key roles in his academic growth. Outside the classroom, staff like Linda Johnsen, Gaby Cordon-Ayala, and even custodial staff helped create a strong sense of community and personal support.
Through programs like the Career Connection Center, Rafael has seen how FSW connects students with local career opportunities. With Collier County’s thriving industries in hospitality, healthcare, environmental science, and business, students have access to internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer roles that make a real impact.
From student talent shows and pie-a-professor events to food trucks and holiday celebrations, Rafael’s time at FSW Collier has been filled with unforgettable experiences.
“FSW didn’t just give me an education It gave me confidence, community, and a sense of purpose” Rosas Arroya said.
Ready to take the next step? There’s no better time to apply and start your own journey today! Visit our admissions webpage at www.fsw.edu/admissions
Rhode Calixte Rhode Calixte: A Nurse in the Making, A Leader Already
For Rhode Calixte, caring for others has always been second nature. Born and raised in Naples, Florida, the 21-year-old grew up surrounded by a family of nurses. Her brother even graduated from Florida SouthWestern State College’s (FSW) Nursing program. Inspired by their compassion, Rhode knew nursing was her true calling. Now in her second year at FSW’s Collier Campus, Rhode is on track to graduate with her Associate in Science in Nursing this December. But she’s not stopping there. She plans to continue her education at FSW and earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), with dreams of working in an ER, NICU, or PICU. Choosing the Collier Campus was an easy decision for Rhode. “It’s close to home, and it really feels like a community,” she shares. “It’s smaller than the main campus, so I’ve been able to connect more with the faculty and staff.” Those connections have made an impact on Rhode’s favorite instructor, Dr. Jennifer Ortiz, who taught her pediatrics course, further igniting her passion for helping children. Rhode is also a campus leader, serving as Collier Campus Student Government Association President and actively participating in the National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA). Her advice for future students? “Don’t be afraid to make friends, join a community, and get involved,” Rhode says. And her personal mantra: “If you want your life to change, make a change.” With determination and heart, Rhode Calixte is on her way to making a difference one patient at a time.
Shelby Williams Finds Her Path at Florida SouthWestern State College
While many students pack their bags and head off to distant campuses, Shelby Williams chose a different route, one that brought her closer to her roots and her future. A proud Collier County native, Shelby grew up attending Oak Ridge Middle School and graduated with the Class of 2024 from Gulf Coast High School. When it came time to choose a college, the decision was clear. “I chose FSW because it’s affordable, close to home and family, and not too overwhelming,” Shelby shared. “It felt like the right fit for me.” Now entering her second year at FSW, Shelby is completing her Associate in Arts degree with a focus on hospitality and tourism management, a field that perfectly matches her passion for organization, planning, and helping others. “I love to help people and get everything organized,” she said. “That’s why I chose this field.” Her ultimate goal? To earn her AA degree at FSW, transfer to Florida Gulf Coast University, and build a dream career at the Ritz-Carlton in Naples. Along the way, Shelby credits her Cornerstone Experience class with Dr. David A. Evans Jr as a major influence. “Dr. Evans was super impactful,” she said, “He gave me great pointers for my career.” When asked what advice she’d give to future FSW students, Shelby didn’t hesitate. “Do it! It’s great and affordable—not too overwhelming—and the campus is super exciting.” At FSW, students like Shelby prove that you don’t have to go far to go far.