Krishiv Panchal describes his time at Lorain County Community College in two words: life changing. 

The 20-year-old, originally from India, came to the United States just two years ago to study. When he enrolled at LCCC, Panchal, who lives in Lorain, knew he had challenges ahead, from learning new education systems to improving his English vocabulary. But LCCC’s student-centered approach to learning meant no challenge was too big to overcome.  

“All of the people around here helped me thrive so much,” Panchal, of Lorain, said. “I have gained so many connections and relationships since coming here.” 

Many of those connections have been made through his time on LCCC’s Student Senate. What started as an on-campus, part-time job search led to Panchal running for senate president.  

“I went to the Student Life office and saw that elections were coming up for the Student Senate,” he said. “I had a chance to become president and I grabbed the opportunity.” 

Panchal said serving as president of LCCC Student Senate has helped him develop many skills that will serve him as he moves forward in his academics and career.  

“I’ve developed my leadership, communication and public speaking skills. And it helped with my self-confidence and ability to work as part of a team,” he said. 

Panchal, who’s graduating on May 16, said he’s used his voice as Student Senate president to underscore the importance of LCCC’s student support programs. The college’s broad range of services, from tutoring centers and career services to the Commodore Cupboard and the Advocacy and Resource Center, have helped him both inside and outside the classroom.  

“There are a lot of staff members here who would support me with anything I need,” Panchal said. 

Among his supporters are faculty in the computer and information technology pathway. Panchal is earning his Associate of Applied Business in Software Development, with hopes of leading his own software company one day.  

“I like computers and software development is a growing opportunity,” he said. “It has so many scopes and offers a board range of applications.” 

After graduation, Panchal plans to transfer to The University of Akron to earn his Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems – Software Development. But part of him wishes he was staying here, on the campus that he said changed his life. 

“At LCCC, I have met so many people, and everyone helped me in any way possible,” he said. “I like the supportive nature of LCCC.”