Galvin Now Thriving at STLCC

As the first person in his family to attend college, Marshall Galvin is eager to prove that he has what it takes to succeed. And now as a student at St. Louis Community College at Wildwood, he’s focused on doing just that. 

“I really wasn’t on the college track in high school,” he said. “My home life was hard, so for me, high school was more about surviving than thriving.”

After graduation, Galvin worked his way up the ladder at a fast-food restaurant, where he served as an assistant manager. He also spent some time in construction, completing home repairs and installing gutters. 

While he was never one to shy away from hard work, after four years, he was ready for more. 

“In the past, I didn’t always make the best choices,” Galvin said. “So, when I made the decision to go college, I did so because I wanted redemption for my past mistakes.”

Fast-forward to today. Galvin is pursuing an associate degree in general transfer studies. Outside of the classroom, he’s only serving as the president of the Volunteers of Wildwood Club, but he’s also a member of the Student Government Association and is active in Club Council. He also was recently hired as a student worker for Wildwood’s recruitment and outreach team. In this role, he not only helps promote STLCC by sharing his story with prospective students, but he also earns money to help cover his college tuition.

“I chose STLCC because it’s the best option for the cost,” he said. “After completing my degree, I plan to transfer to a four-year to study business operations or entrepreneurship.”

Ultimately, Galvin aspires to run his own business or oversee the operations of an organization.

According to Daniel F. Yezbick, Ph.D., professor of English, this plan aligns with his strengths. 

“Marshall's love of learning and exploring new ideas is infectious,” said Yezbick. “He works hard and always invites others to contribute to complex and collaborative debates and discussions with special energy and encouraging humor. He thrives academically and socially, and he contributes to many facets of the Wildwood culture and community with joy and determination." 

As the academic year continues, Galvin said he’s determined to stay on track and finish what he’s started.

“I’m proud of myself for how far I’ve come, and I’m thankful for the support I have from my extended family, as well as the group of students and employees I’ve met in my short time at STLCC,” he said. “I don’t care how hard college is – I’m not going to let anything stand in the way of me achieving my goals.”