Stories of Possibility

We believe higher education is more than great academics. At UCCS, it's about finding like-minded people within a community that will lift each other up as we pursue what's possible - together. Regardless of what you want to achieve, our students, faculty, and staff are committed to leveraging passion, competence, collaboration, and hard work to find and create opportunities to put you on a path towards success.

Whether you are starting a never-before done education path, finding a second career after the military, or anything in between, UCCS is going to embrace you and where you want to go. Explore our inspiring stories of possibility and discover how our community uses an optimistic and opportunistic mindset to create their ideal futures.

Owning What’s Next.

More than 20 years after starting college, Aja Zamandu returned to finish what she began. In the years between, she built a global career as a professional musician, touring internationally and teaching creative residencies across the country. When the pandemic paused touring, she reignited her goal of completing her degree.

At UCCS, she found more than a path forward. She found people who made it possible. Faculty helped her transfer credits, secure aid, and thrive as a non-traditional student. The relationships she built across departments became a steady source of support, guidance, and connection. She graduated in 2023 as a Student Achievement Award recipient and commencement speaker.

Now completing her Master of Clinical Psychology with a trauma focus, Aja is preparing for a PhD. Inspired by the mental health struggles she witnessed in the music industry and in the communities she served, she is channeling her experience into trauma psychology, supported every step of the way by mentors, faculty, and peers. Her journey reflects what happens when ambition is powered by people.

Program

Master of Clinical Psychology (Trauma Psychology); Bachelor’s Degree, Class of 2023

Words of Wisdom

“I lean on my colleagues, I lean on my classmates, I lean on my family, my husband, my advisors.”

Fun Fact

Prior to UCCS, she had a successful career in music for 20 years with her nationally and internationally acclaimed band, The Reminders.

Born to Teach

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Saying Yes to What's Possible.

Emma Stump arrived at UCCS with a plan: to study human physiology and nutrition. After diving into her studies and learning more about herself, an unexpected passion for teaching emerged. From her very first course in education, Emma knew she had found her true purpose. Having grown up in a rural area, Emma was drawn to the idea of returning to a small-town classroom to inspire students like her to take chances and reach their potential.

At UCCS, she embraced every opportunity to get involved. As a member of the Chancellor's Leadership Class and the club volleyball team, Emma discovered the power of community and personal growth. Now a UCCS graduate, Emma is back in a small town, ready to inspire the next generation to pursue their dreams. Her journey is a testament to keeping an open mind, saying yes to what's possible, and the unexpected paths that lead us to our true calling.

Program

Secondary Education in Biology with a Leadership Studies Minor.

Words of Wisdom

"I love how welcoming the UCCS community is. No matter what club or organization you’re going to, people want you there and people want you to come and participate and engage."

Fun Fact

Emma's go-to stress reliever at UCCS was getting Chinese takeout and eating while enjoying the views at Garden of the Gods Park.

Fueling What Comes Next

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Fueling a Healthy Career.

Leah Derrera returned to school as a parent, commuter, and adult learner searching for direction and a clearer sense of purpose. What began as a leap of faith became a calling when her family’s experience with nutrition reshaped how she saw her future.

At UCCS, Leah found faculty who knew her goals and partnered with her as she explored what was possible. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and the flexibility to balance family life, she was able to pursue her master’s in nutrition and dietetics with confidence and momentum.

Now preparing to serve her community, Leah is building a career grounded in applied learning and real-world impact, guided by the belief that food can be a powerful tool for health and healing.

Program

Nutrition and Dietetics, MS

Words of Wisdom

“If I had a friend who wanted to go back to school but was nervous about it, I would fully recommend UCCS because they’re very invested in their students and their student success.”

Fun Fact

Her favorite place to study on campus is the fourth floor of the HIE building, where she looks out at Pikes Peak while working between classes.

Fishing for Something Bigger

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Transitioning into Possibilities.

After retiring from the Air Force, Ryan Paget faced a rapid and uncertain transition into civilian life. Balancing family, service, and a new career path, he was searching for direction beyond the uniform and a community that understood where he had been and where he wanted to go next.

At UCCS, Ryan found people who partnered with him as he explored what was possible. Through the Veteran and Military Affairs Office and an education grounded in real-world experience, he was able to turn challenge into clarity, and uncertainty into forward momentum.

Now training to become a mental health clinician, Ryan is building a second career rooted in service, healing, and impact. Alongside his studies, he continues to support fellow veterans and first responders through his nonprofit work, applying what he’s learning beyond the classroom and into the communities that matter most to him.

Program

Psychology, B.A.; Minor in Human Services

Words of Wisdom

“If you can find a new purpose, a new home, and a new tribe, which you can find at UCCS, man, this is a great place to start.”

Fun Fact

Founded Boldface Fly Fishing Foundation, a nonprofit that helps veterans, first responders, and healthcare workers find peace, community, and stress relief through fly fishing.