Finding Success and Passing It On – Ryan Ferreira, Biological Sciences

The support and guidance Ryan Ferreria received at the College helped fuel his achievements and prioritize giving back to other CCP students.

After graduating high school, Ryan wasn’t sure he could succeed in higher education.

“Before I came to CCP, I thought I wasn’t smart enough. People showed me that college is for me, and that I’m able to do this. We’re all smart and can do this,” said Ryan.

Graduating this May with a degree in Biological Sciences, Ryan currently has a 3.0 GPA.

“I like biology, and I wanted to help animals,” he said.

While at the College, Ryan received academic and personal support from the Center for Male Engagement (CME) and support coach Albert Swindle, and the Catto Scholarship provided financial assistance, allowing him to graduate debt-free.

“Catto helped me a lot, especially financially, and students went on college tours,” he said. The Catto initiative also includes provides coaches and advisors, and support for necessities such as food and transportation.

Active in the life of the College, Ryan serves as a CME peer coach, assisting new students in accessing resources at CCP, meeting faculty and staff, and offering help and support. He is also the recipient of the CME Strong Men, Strong Lives scholarship. He started the Photography Club as well as the Bible Study Club, where he also served as president.

This summer, Ryan plans on increasing his volunteer hours at the Philadelphia SPCA as he prepares for transfer to either West Chester University or Temple University in the fall. He plans on pursuing a degree in Business to prepare for career possibilities on the management side of organizations or agencies that combine his love of animals, plants and nature.

“Al, my support coach, talked to me about the business side of things and showed me how I can pursue both of them at once,” said Ryan.

Knowing the importance of building connections with people, Ryan credits those at the College for helping him thrive and move on to a bachelor’s degree program.

“People here care about everybody, and they want to help you get to the next step. I’ve seen the love. I honestly don’t want to leave. It’s amazing,” he said.