Student Spotlight – Jose Ocampo Gomez

Jose Ocampo Gomez is a first-generation student fascinated with blackholes, intergalactic space and beyond. His passion for learning is not limited to one, but three fields including Astronomy, Math, and Philosophy. By Spring 2024, Jose hopes to leave Los Angeles City College with three degrees and continue his education at UC Berkeley following his dream to become an Astrophysicist at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). 

Jose initially came to LACC for the music program but craved something different from what he already knew and decided to try physics. In doing so, he developed problem-solving skills and patience. Jose believes having mentors like Professor Kiley and Professor Bhakta has opened many doors, like being referred to Southern California Conferences for Undergraduate Research (SCCUR) where he got incredible experience and learned creative research tools. 

Jose’s persistence helped him find UC Berkeley’s Transfer Alliance Project, a program created to serve underserved students at California community colleges. Jose received support services specifically designed to facilitate his transfer to a four-year university.  

Jose is an incredible student, and we’re highlighting him this month because of his participation in LACC’s Physics and Engineering Department collaboration with West Coast University’s Occupational Therapy Program and GoBabyGo. Together, they adapted electric ride-on cars for children with disabilities, part of the nationwide GoBabyGo initiative. Since 2018, teams of students have come together each summer to modify cars, and make them accessible for children with disabilities. These teams add buttons to the steering wheels, custom frames for back support, sound systems, programmable lights, and adaptations to accommodate ventilators.  These customized cars, valued at around $300 each, are provided to families free of charge.  

Your support ensures that LACC students like Jose can continue contributing to this valuable project, making a real difference in the lives of children with disabilities. Jose is grateful for the chance to invest his time and talent into this meaningful endeavor.  

Jose is actively involved in running LACC’s Astronomy Club and finds solace in camping and stargazing. Aside from Jose’s love for the cosmos, he is a Renaissance man that enjoys playing guitar and writing poetry. He finds inspiration in Shakespeare’s work, but his interests also include classic literature and horror books by Stephen King.  

Because of you, The LACC Foundation was able to play a vital role in Jose’s journey by providing scholarships and necessary tools for his coursework. Thank you for your support, and giving students the opportunity to follow their dreams, or discover new ones.  

Join Us in Making a Difference. Donate to the LACC Foundation Today!