<p><span class="p-body">Offering students an introduction to the various fields of study, the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/aa-in-liberal-arts.html" target="_blank">AA in Liberal Arts</a> program also serves as a pathway to the BA in Humanities or BA in Social Sciences. Carlos Calderon is a student in the program who has discovered new passions and career possibilities through his courses. We were excited to catch up with him recently to learn more about his background and plans for the future.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Calderon's story is one of determination and a deep commitment to personal and professional growth. Originally from Ecuador, he moved to the United States at the age of 11, leaving behind the familiar and embracing a new world of opportunities. Settling into his new life, he found himself drawn to sports, reading, and, most of all, traveling the world—his true passion. These interests shaped his worldview and laid the groundwork for his ambitions.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Calderon's path to NYU began while working as a dental assistant in several hospitals. Through this work, he met a close friend who was part of the NYU community. Inspired by the opportunities available at NYU, she encouraged Calderon to explore what the university had to offer. &quot;She shared with me the opportunities NYU offers to support our academic growth and pursue various degrees,&quot; Calderon recalls. In March 2019, he officially became part of the NYU family, and from that moment on, he knew his journey was headed in the right direction.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">In 2022, Calderon embarked on his undergraduate studies at NYU, pursuing an AA in Liberal Arts. Now, as he nears graduation, he reflects on the privilege of learning from exceptional professors who have played a significant role in his development.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Calderon feels that NYU has given him the tools necessary to excel in his future career. He credits NYU SPS with thoroughly preparing him for his academic pursuits and providing him with the confidence to move forward in his career.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Calderon's plans after graduation are clear. He aims to further his education as a hygienist, using his skills and bilingual background to make a positive impact on the community. &quot;Leveraging my skills as a bilingual Latino speaker, I aim to educate people about the significance of oral hygiene and make a positive impact,&quot; he explains. It's a mission close to his heart, and one that is deeply inspired by the mentors in his life. His two closest friends, who balanced parental responsibilities while completing NYU's Hygiene program, serve as a constant source of motivation. &quot;Their perseverance and dedication earn my deepest respect, fueling my motivation to persist in my own educational pursuits.&quot;</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">For Calderon, being accepted into NYU was one of his proudest moments. &quot;Receiving the acceptance letter from NYU reinforced the notion that hard work and perseverance yield rewarding outcomes,&quot; he reflects.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">As he prepares for the next chapter of his life, Calderon has some advice for incoming NYU SPS students: &quot;Cherish every moment, dare to dream big, and maximize your time. Capitalize on the expertise of distinguished faculty and programs designed to propel you toward achieving your aspirations.&quot; With his inspiring journey and commitment to making a difference, Calderon is well on his way to leaving a lasting impact in the field of healthcare and beyond.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Take the first step in a fulfilling career when you pursue an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/aa-in-liberal-arts.html" target="_blank">AA in Liberal Arts</a> at NYU SPS, here in the center of everything.</span></p>