In Fall 2022, Lamar Davila will be a sophomore at Stella and Charles Guttman Community College. Lamar was born and raised in the Bronx, where he continues to reside. When Lamar was applying to colleges as a senior in high school, he chose to apply to Guttman because he had “heard that it was a good college,” and, after doing his research, he decided that, based on its size and the support he could receive from staff and fellow students, Guttman would be the right fit for him.
Based on Lamar’s experiences at Guttman thus far, he has made the right choice! Lamar prides himself on being a friendly, people person—“For the people into astrology, I am a March Pisces.”—and he has thoroughly enjoyed the community vibe of the college. Lamar relishes the opportunity to work closely with fellow students, staff, and professors, and to hone his communication skills, skills that Lamar regards as crucial to achieving success in his future career.
Presently, Lamar is majoring in Urban Studies at Guttman. He is a history enthusiast who appreciates how Urban Studies draws on the history of New York for the sake of gaining greater insight into present-day features of the city and its people.
Lamar makes sure to take advantage of the many events that Guttman offers to its students—events like those celebrating Latinx Heritage Month, during which students had the opportunity to attend bilingual poetry readings, student poetry workshops, karaoke sessions involving musica Latina, as well as a conversation featuring Puerto Rican Poet Urayoán Noel. It is events like these—in which students have the chance to mingle with each other as well as professors and special guests—that, according to Lamar, distinguishes Guttman from other colleges.
Lamar encourages fellow Guttman students not to be afraid to speak up. “I would say that if you are struggling with any issues while being in Guttman, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.” Indeed, this is one of the highlights of college life at Guttman—that a support staff exists who are willing, ready, and keen to help students who seek help. “No matter how big or small” the challenge may be, Lamar wants the community to know that Guttman steps up to the plate on behalf of their students.
