From Jamaica to Leadership: Shamonique Harris’ Journey to Success at Long Beach City College
Shamonique Harris grew up in Jamaica with big dreams and an unshakable determination to succeed. From a young age, she knew that education would be her gateway to making a difference, not just in her life, but in the lives of others. However, the path to success wasn’t always straightforward. It took courage, resilience, and a leap of faith that would eventually lead her to Long Beach City College (LBCC) in California.
Taking the Leap: From Jamaica to the U.S.
Leaving home wasn’t an easy decision. Jamaica was where Shamonique had built her foundation—her family, friends, and community. But she yearned for greater opportunities, and she believed that the U.S. could provide her with the resources and education to create a meaningful impact.
Moving to a new country came with its own set of challenges. There were moments of uncertainty, cultural adjustments, and the overwhelming reality of navigating life in a completely different environment. But despite these hurdles, Shamonique never lost sight of her purpose. She was determined to make the most of this opportunity.
Finding Her Place at LBCC
The moment Shamonique stepped onto LBCC’s campus, she knew she had found a home away from home. The college’s supportive atmosphere and diverse community helped ease her transition. However, she didn’t just want to be a student—she wanted to be a leader.
Rather than staying in the background, she took an active role in shaping her college experience. She joined student organizations, sought out leadership roles, and built relationships with faculty and peers. These efforts soon paid off, opening doors to opportunities that would redefine her future.
Breaking Barriers and Leading the Way
Shamonique’s involvement in student leadership wasn’t just about adding accomplishments to her resume—it was about creating change. She took on multiple leadership positions, including:
President of the International Student Program (ISP) – Advocating for international students and ensuring they had the resources to succeed.
President Ambassador – Representing LBCC and sharing her journey to inspire others.
Associated Student Body President – Giving a voice to students and working towards campus improvements.
Vice President of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society – Encouraging academic excellence and service among students.
Vice President of the Social Work Club – Preparing for a future in social work by leading discussions and initiatives.
Her journey wasn’t without challenges. As a woman of color, an international student, and a leader, she often found herself navigating spaces where she had to prove her worth. But instead of being discouraged, she used these experiences to fuel her passion for advocacy and mentorship.
Overcoming Financial Challenges and Giving Back
Like many international students, financial constraints were a constant concern. In Spring 2023, she was awarded a scholarship from the International Students Department—one of only three recipients. This financial support helped her purchase books and stay focused on her academic goals.
Understanding the impact of financial barriers, Shamonique became an advocate for student resources. She made it a mission to help others access scholarships, food assistance, and part-time job opportunities. Whether through the Viking Vault food pantry or tutoring services, she worked to ensure that no student felt unsupported.
Creating a Lasting Impact
For Shamonique, leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about the legacy she leaves behind. She has dedicated herself to making LBCC a more inclusive and empowering place for students from all walks of life. Through her mentorship, advocacy, and resilience, she has inspired countless students to step out of their comfort zones and embrace their potential.
Her advice? “Never be afraid to ask for help. The resources and support systems are there—you just have to reach out.”
A Vision for the Future
As she approaches graduation, Shamonique is setting her sights on bigger goals. With the support of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and LBCC, she is exploring full-ride scholarship opportunities to continue her education in Social Work. Her dream is to use her experiences to advocate for underrepresented communities, ensuring that others have the same opportunities she fought to create for herself.
Her journey—from Jamaica to LBCC, from a new student to a campus leader—is proof that with passion, perseverance, and the right support system, anything is possible.
Want to hear Shamonique’s story in her own words? Watch her video and discover how she turned challenges into triumphs.