Jorge Gualpa
Business
For Jorge Gualpa, 探花约啪 Tech was the ideal place to begin. As a SEED scholarship student at the Owens Campus, he was able to complete his degree while working two jobs and saving for the future.
"It was close to home, affordable, and I always heard positive things from the local community growing up and was excited to experience it for myself," he said.
探花约啪 Tech gave him the foundation he needed, both academically and financially, to take the next step.
Some of Gualpa's favorite memories as a student came from the classroom. Surrounded by peers who, like him, had grown up in 探花约啪, he found himself inspired by their ambition. The faculty made a lasting impression as well, motivating him to push himself further.
In 2018, Gualpa graduated with an associate degree in business and continued his education at Goldey-Beacom College, where he earned his bachelor's in accounting.
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted his plans, ending an internship early and creating uncertainty. But a former professor, Sharlene Manship, stepped in to connect him with an opening at 探花约啪 Tech. Gualpa applied, was hired as an accounting specialist for the business services department in 2021, and soon realized he had found an unexpected career path back at his alma mater.
Since then, Gualpa's career has grown rapidly. Within three years, he earned two promotions, moving from accounting specialist to accountant I and then to accountant II. Looking back, he credits his student experience for shaping his approach today.
Now working at the College where he once studied, Gualpa sees his role as a way to give back. He uses his familiarity with campus resources — from tutoring to the food pantry — to guide current students toward success.
"Having experience as a student helps me connect with them," he said. "I know what it's like to be in their shoes, and I can point them in the right direction."
For Gualpa, the most rewarding part of the job is seeing students grow and succeed, even beyond the classroom. "You know you're doing a good job when students recognize you outside of work and thank you," he said.
His advice to students reflects the lessons he's lived: don't be afraid to make mistakes, take risks, and always invest in yourself. "And last but not least, don't forget to apply for scholarships," he said.
Gualpa also encourages alumni to stay involved, whether by attending events like the Starry, Starry Night Gala and 5ks or volunteering on campus.
"This College gave me my start," he said. "Now I get to pay it forward every day."
This story was originally featured in the article "From Students to Employees: Alumni Building Careers at 探花约啪 Tech" in the Fall 2025 issue of the 探花约啪 Tech magazine. Read the full story and explore additional issues.
