Grad Spotlight: George Carrasco

Growing up in a low-income household, George Carrasco learned resilience early. Raised by his young immigrant mother, he moved frequently between the ages of four and nine as his family searched for stability. As a first-generation college student, George knew education would be his path to a brighter future, but the road wasn’t always easy.

After failing the 11th grade, George refused to let one setback define him. Instead, he worked tirelessly to transform his future, ultimately becoming the valedictorian of Los Angeles City College’s Class of 2026.

George discovered LACC through a simple Google search. “If they are the city’s college,” he thought, “they might have some of the best opportunities for me.” He was right. Drawn to business because of his strength with numbers and experience working in inventory, George developed his analytical skills while pursuing a career with long-term stability. Encouraged by a counselor to step into leadership, he became Executive of Finance for Associated Student Government, bringing him one step closer to his dream of becoming a Chief Financial Officer.

This August, George will transfer to UC Santa Barbara to continue studying Business Administration.

One of the biggest lessons George learned at LACC is that “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” He encourages incoming students to get involved in extracurricular activities, saying they build awareness, networking skills, and meaningful connections.

George also credits the LACC Foundation for funding the eye surgery that allowed him to see the world without glasses, a life-changing opportunity he deeply appreciates.

His favorite quote, by Richard Feynman, reflects the curiosity that has guided his journey: “I would rather have questions that cannot be answered than answers that cannot be questioned.”

From overcoming adversity to graduating as valedictorian, George’s story proves that setbacks don’t define your future, how you respond to them does.