A Path to My Dream College

Like many top math students, Phuc Dinh wanted to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at Drexel University.

He first enrolled, however, at Community College of Philadelphia, where he said he took courses that prepared him for other colleges and universities. “I love chemistry and the sciences,” he said. “I find it interesting to solve problems, and see how these solutions relate to real life.”

Along the way, Dinh excelled and earned $8,300 in scholarships and academic awards, and Drexel University is providing him with a scholarship and grants to assist with his tuition.

Dinh said he is considering a career in the automotive industry, perhaps designing the next state-of-the-art engine or an alternative fuel system that has mass appeal. Whichever road he chooses, his education and wide-ranging experiences at the College have changed his life and provided a solid foundation for future success.

Drexel has been the second-largest transfer partner for the College over the last 10 years. On May 22, 2017, the two institutions signed a dual admissions partnership that will make it easier and, in some cases, more affordable for the College’s graduates to transfer to and finish their degrees at Drexel.

Mint-Bldg“I think we are kindred,” John Fry, president of Drexel University, said recently of Community College of Philadelphia. “We both have a West Philadelphia presence. Our missions are aligned even though we are very different institutions. I think these students at (community college) are role models. They have to fight really hard to do what they want to do. I don’t think that the kid who makes it through two tough years at Community College of Philadelphia, oftentimes working, takes anything for granted. I like that attitude. It is gritty. It adds to the mix of our students.”