Be Prepared For More Than You Expect

I was just 12 years old when I took my first class at Modesto Junior College. 

I loved acting in school plays, so someone suggested that I try a class at MJC with an acting professor named Charline Freedman (aka Jeremy Renner’s mentor around that time!). Professor Freedman’s class was so inspiring that it and MJC left a very positive impression on me, far before I was old enough for college.

Fast-forward to 1997 when I graduated from high school. I wasn’t overly excited to attend community college. Many of my friends were heading to four-year universities in other parts of the state and country, and I didn’t have high hopes about enjoying my time at a community college. Little did I know, however, that the classes and my experience would far exceed my expectations. I specifically remember Professor Phillips, an incredibly insightful English instructor and storyteller who encouraged my curiosity about writing. In fact, all my classes at MJC piqued my interest.

Guided by an MJC counselor, I transferred to California State University, Long Beach after two years. From there, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business/marketing. I am confident that the preparation provided by my MJC courses and instructors played an instrumental role in my ability to navigate a competitive 40,000-student university. 

I also still visited the MJC campus, and occasionally participated during the nutrition section of my brother Steve’s health class. (Read ahead for the impact that had on what I do today!)

While pursuing various career paths, I recalled something a junior high teacher had told me – that people my age would typically have seven career changes. I didn’t believe it, as my parents were in the same careers for most of their professional lives. But as I look back, I realize that I have gone on to several careers: mortgages, teaching, higher education, writing and nutrition. All have been positive, professional learning experiences.

My last move reverts to my love of language and performing arts – much of which was cultivated at MJC. I started putting pen to paper as a hobby in 2013. Little did I know that a seemingly far-fetched pipe dream would eventually turn into a new career of writing books and magazine stories.

Now a certified nutritionist, I’m proud to say I’m a “best-selling” author – of Almost Keto, The 30-Day Keto Plan, The Whole Pregnancy, and the forthcoming Super Simple Keto (all published by Simon & Schuster). I am also a contributing writer for various publications including People, Huffpost, Health, Yahoo!, Consumer Health Digest, Simply Gluten-Free, National Celiac Association, Well + Good, and Motherly. 

I am very grateful for the education, opportunities and memories I had at Modesto Junior College. They prepared me for far more than I ever expected.

- Aimee Aristotelous