2023 PSD Social Sciences: Selwyn Gibson
If we saw Selwyn running for national office, we wouldn’t be surprised. He’s been a highly engaged student at Cypress College – whether studying Political Science for his degree, representing students through A2MEND, or speaking at the Cypress College Foundation Golf Tournament – with the goal of uniting a politically divided nation on his mind. Upon graduation, he is continuing his education at UCLA. After that?
“My major long-term goal is to become the President of the United States of America and be a unifying figure in America and bring people together.”
Please tell us about Where did you grow up? What are your interests? What is your story?
I have lived in Orange County for the vast majority of my life and I call it home because it’s the only place I recognize as home. My main interest is in history and politics and understanding how we got to where we are today. Living in Orange County I always knew that there was more about the world and the people that live in it I sought to expand my knowledge and understanding of the world around me.
What are you most passionate about? Why?
For me what I am most passionate about is trying to unite a divided nation. I have grown up in a time when people are bitterly divided for various different reasons whether they be, political, religious, racial, etc. What I seek to do is to be a part of the solution and unite people by getting everyone to realize that at the end of the day when all the drama and conflict subsides that we are all people trying to live our lives in peace.
Why did you choose Cypress College?
I chose Cypress for two reasons, the first is that the college is close to home and Cypress College was down the street so it was a natural choice to attend Cypress. The second reason that I came to Cypress was that this is an excellent and supportive educational institution where I feel I have made great academic strides.
What have you been involved in at Cypress College? How has your path unfolded?
I have been involved in the Cypress College Associated Students and the Cypress College A2MEND Chapter where I have had the greatest opportunities to support and represent students at various events both on and off campus.
Share a memorable event or experience while you’ve been a Cypress College My most memorable experience at Cypress for me would be when I attended and spoke at the Cypress College Foundation Golf Tournament where for me I felt like I truly became a representative for the students of this amazing college.
Who are the faculty and staff (in your major, an academic or other support program, etc.) who have helped you get where you are today?
I would like to give a great show of appreciation to the amazing advisors of Associated Students, Dave Okawa and Jay Shonkwiler. My advisor for the A2MEND chapter Professor Virgil Adams and the Legacy Program as a whole for their support. Finally, I would like to thank Brittney Hamer of the Charger Experience Program for being a great and supportive counselor during my time at Cypress who has helped me since I first arrived here.
How has Cypress College supported you throughout your time at the college?
Cypress College has been nothing but a supportive and open institution that has allowed me to be free to pursue my academic achievements with great success.
What are your immediate plans after completing your studies at Cypress College (at your transfer institution, in the workforce, etc.)?
After completing my time at Cypress College I will transfer to UCLA as a political science major.
What are your long-term goals? What do you aspire to?
My major long-term goal is to become the President of the United States of America and be a unifying figure in America and bring people together.
What are you most proud of?
What I am most proud of is that I have come so far in my life and that I am ready to move to the next stage of my higher education.
What bit of advice would you give to current and future Cypress College students?
I would say the following: Believe in who you are and what you do, for it is your conviction and will to succeed in life that will determine your future and the future of those around you.
Is there anyone in particular you’d like to thank?
I would like to give a special thanks to my mom, dad, and brother. As well as my uncles, aunts, and cousins for their support. Finally, I would like to thank my friends here at Cypress College who have been supportive since the first day.