Through the generous partnership between Uber and Arizona State University, Richard Percoco was able to receive his education from a world-class university.
Percoco chose to attend ASU Online because he was an Uber partner and they offer a program that allows people who may not be able to afford an education to overcome that barrier.
Taking advantage of the academic opportunities, Percoco will graduate with two degrees this December, one in political science from the School of Politics and Global Studies and another in history from the School of Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies, both within The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
“I remember reading historical monographs and Supreme Court cases when I was in the fourth grade,” Percoco said. “Being a dual major in history and political science was a no brainer for me.”
Over the past two years spent at ASU, Percoco has sought advice and learned a multitude of lessons from peers and professors that will aid his career journey post-graduation.
The most important thing Percoco said he learned from his studies is to be more forgiving of himself when mistakes are made. This allowed him to have more patience with himself and stay on track of his academics.
“Do not get discouraged by doing poorly on an assignment or even in a class,” Percoco said. “The light at the end of the tunnel might seem out of reach, but if you persevere, you can achieve anything you put your mind to.”
Upon his graduation, Percoco will join the 2023 Teach for America Corps as a career educator in Massachusetts.
Many classes encouraged Percoco to obtain his future position, including a global politics course taught by Daniel Pout, a former instructor in the School of Politics and Global Studies, where he learned that “the world is a big place, but individuals can make a difference on that world stage.”
Percoco looks forward to traveling to Arizona for graduation, exploring the Tempe campus and thanking faculty in person.
“From professors, to advisors, to success coaches and most importantly, my peers. You have all helped me get to the point I am at now, and you will forever have my gratitude,” Percoco said.
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