Adriana Altamirano

The power of massage can change lives. As a healing and wellness practice, it can lessen pain, lower blood pressure, promote healthier sleep and even boost the immune system. It can change lives in other ways, too: "I knew at that moment that I was ready to return to school and this would be the career I would pursue," says Adriana Altamirano, recalling how her earliest introduction to the field of massage therapy instantly crystallized her college — and career — goals.

The Boise resident and recent high school graduate was determined to go to college, although no one in her family had ever been, and was working to save money and determine an inspiring path of study when she found her new focus.

"I became fascinated by the concepts of the mind-body connection and the physiological effects bodywork produces," Altamirano shares. "The more I learned how powerful massage can be for our wellness, the deeper my interest and desire grew to share this with others." She relocated to Oregon to enroll in COCC's highly regarded Massage Therapy program, receiving a COCC Foundation scholarship to cover her tuition.

As a first-generation college student, Altamirano didn't have family guidance about the higher learning landscape, but she came to COCC with an incredible work ethic and a helpful attitude. As a full-time student working full time at a restaurant, Altamirano has maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA and earned a place on the 2023 All-Oregon Academic Team.

"The support from this program and my professors has helped me realize my goals as well as attain them," she says. "I remember when I first started at COCC, I was amazed by how caring, involved and encouraging the staff were." Looking ahead, Altamirano plans to provide restorative treatment alongside physical therapists and chiropractors, and potentially pursue a bachelor's degree in exercise science or kinesiology.