Student Spotlight: Evan Riccardo

The thought of going to college later in life can be intimidating. When Evan Riccardo decided to enroll at Onondaga Community College and begin taking classes in the spring 2024 semester, he wasn't sure if he would be able to survive. "I was terrified. I was like 'oh my God what am I doing?' I was super nervous. After a couple days, I relaxed and realized I was actually excited to be back in school."

Riccardo is a 36-year-old father of two who is successfully balancing the demands of being a full-time college student and a parent. He's a New York City native who graduated from high school in Colorado in 2007 where he earned a certification in Greenhouse Management. After graduation he began working in a greenhouse, attended college briefly, then focused solely on his career. "I moved all over the country working at greenhouses and farms until I had kids. Then I needed to make a change."

When Covid hit, he decided to come to Central New York to be closer to his family. He became an Uber driver and spent a lot of time thinking about a career. "I was doing the same thing over and over and over. My dad suggested I check out what they had at OCC. I knew I had to make some kind of change."

His work history included greenhouses in multiple locations and a position at United Parcel Service. Much of what he did focused on logistics. When he discovered OCC's new Supply Chain Management degree program, it seemed like a perfect fit. "There are so many different shipping and logistical businesses in the area. It can be a booming career."

His first semester required a significant life adjustment. While raising 11-year-old Nicholas and 8-year-old Skyla, he was also a full-time student. "I learned to stay on a strict schedule. I have a planner and write out all of my assignments. I stay on top of things and don't wait until the last minute. And my son has gotten me into the kick of being 10 minutes early getting everywhere so I'm on time. I never used to be like this!"

As his first semester was drawing to a close, Riccardo decided to pursue a position in Student Government. He was involved in school clubs and organizations as early as elementary school. And his sister-in-law, Alexis Riccardo, was OCC Student Government President for three semesters. "She said it would be a great thing to be a part of." Riccardo ran for office, won, and this semester is the Chair of Outreach and External Affairs.

Returning to school has worked out even better than Riccardo could have imagined. He hopes anyone in a similar position will give college a try. "Just taking one or two classes can make you more motivated and go a long way. It's never too late."