Ruth Gameiro, Social Work Student

Social work is a unique field in which the motivation and desire to help others has to be present at all times. Working with those who need assistance to overcome obstacles in their lives can be both extremely challenging and emotional.

Student Ruth Gameiro believes that it can also be extremely rewarding.

"I've always been really passionate about helping people," says Gameiro. "I'm a people person, and I feel like if you have the right person who can really motivate and impact someone's life, there's room for change."

Gameiro has had her life changed not just by her choice field of study, but by the faculty and staff who have supported her since her arrival at NCC. The Wilson High School graduate admits that she had a rough time with her education prior to her decision to attend college, but that she was determined to make it count when she arrived here.

"My social work professor, Hope Horowitz really inspired me," Gameiro explains. "She made me realize what kind of person you need to be before you can help others."

Director of Student Life, Frank Pologruto, also saw something special in Gameiro that perhaps she didn't realize she had in herself. He approached her at orientation and encouraged her to run for Student Senate. She initially didn't think much of it, but filled out the paperwork anyway. Being voted in, says Gameiro, gave her the opportunity that she needed to gain experiences in college that will help her grow up a bit.

"My first step in coming here was realizing that I had to drop some friendships that weren't benefitting me and kind of learn a little about myself, who I am and where I want to be," says Gameiro. "I know that I'm surrounded by good people who aren't going to bring me down. They're only going to make me better and uplift me."

Gameiro can envision herself spending her career uplifting those who need a support system. Her main goal is to eventually complete both her bachelor's and master's degrees and work with inmates who have substance abuse problems. She also has an interest in psychology, and believes that what she's learned thus far at NCC will enable her to achieve full balance in her future.

"Every piece of my two years here is going to continue with me," says Gameiro. "The role in leadership, the position I hold, my work ethic and just being able to hopefully motivate others and get them to where they want to be is going to be what I take away from here."