by Elmer Ventura

Xypher Pino, a dedicated student at Greensboro College, exemplifies the power of education and community engagement. His journey showcases a commitment to personal growth, leadership and a passion for helping others, all while navigating the challenges of college life.

Before arriving at GC, Pino expressed, “I wanted to attend a place where I would not be just a number; I wanted to feel like I truly matter.” This desire is what led him to choose Greensboro College, which he finds to be a welcoming, close-knit campus. The supportive community at GC has allowed him to engage in both studies and extracurricular activities, helping him grow beyond achieving good grades.

During his sophomore year, Pino experienced a pivotal moment in his academic journey by getting involved with Dr. Robert Brewer campus chaplain and the 2023 NC Hunger Challenge. He stated, “my experience with Dr. Brewer deepened my understanding of what it means to help others,” reinforcing the idea that even small acts of service can bring profound fulfillment. Brewer significantly influenced him, shifting his focus from grades to personal growth and genuine engagement.

The Hunger Challenge helped him reflect on his true motivations and develop a more selfless approach to community service. He said, “I have learned that true fulfillment comes from contributing to the well-being of others, and I aspire to be remembered for my commitment to ensuring others have the best experiences possible.” Having to lead Greensboro college in numerous events while in competition against 11 other campuses —enhanced his leadership, organization and public speaking skills. Managing the pressure of the competition taught him valuable lessons in time management, collaboration and resilience.

Pino’s experience at GC has been enriched by the supportive community of friends, professors and mentors he has. He stated, “They genuinely care about helping others, and that mindset has fueled my drive to make a positive impact.” This environment has been crucial for his development.

One of the most enriching experiences for Pino has been his involvement with The Collegian. Initially hesitant to join, he was encouraged by Dr. John to participate, calling it “one of the best decisions I made.” He took on the challenge of revamping the organization’s website and managing its social media presence, which taught him invaluable skills applicable to other projects, including the Hunger Challenge. He reflects, “My journey from being a reluctant participant to now serving as the executive editor has been incredibly rewarding.”

Like many students, Pino has faced challenges balancing academics with extracurricular commitments. Learning to prioritize and manage his time has been essential, especially while juggling leadership roles and coursework. He stated, “While the pressure has been overwhelming at times, it has taught me resilience and adaptability, which will serve me well in the future.”

Since starting at Greensboro College, he has deepened his appreciation for education. He noted, “I now see education not just as a means to an end but as a transformative journey that shapes who we are.” The relationships he has built, and challenges faced have underscored the importance of collaboration, empathy, and community service.

Cultivating friendships and a support system has come naturally for him. He shared, “I have never been the type to initiate conversations, but I have found connections through shared experiences.” These connections are from working with on the 2024 NC Hunger Challenge and forming friendships through his involvement in The Collegian.

Now in his junior year, Pino has learned how to approach college life effectively. His advice to freshmen is, “Be yourself and do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, as the effort you put in directly correlates with what you will get back.” Greensboro College has been an excellent place for him to explore these interests and grow.

As he approaches the last three semesters at GC, Pino is eager to attend medical school, driven by his passion for learning and helping others. He hopes to deepen his knowledge in the medical field while continuing his community service efforts.

Once he graduates, Pino will carry many memories with him, but one will stand out: the time spent with his best friends, Babatunde Odofin and me. Special memories include time spent in the library, which he described as his “go-to spot” for countless hours with friends. Dr. Wayne Harrison classroom has been enjoyable due to his engaging teaching style, and Brewer’s office has provided a space for mentorship and support throughout his journey.

He reflected, “Out of all the places we could have gone, we found each other here, and those moments made me realize how lucky I am to have them as friends.” He cherishes their experiences, and the bonds formed at GC.

Juggling academics, social activities and self-care is challenging yet rewarding. Time management is crucial, especially for someone as involved as Pino. Weekends allow him to recharge and engage in activities he enjoys, like playing video games or sports. He expressed, “Finding that balance has been key to my well-being.” As some may find to be of a surprise, Pino loves playing basketball. As he stated, “I am a huge fan, not just of watching the NBA but also playing the game. I could spend hours on the court, and even if I am not the best player, It is a way for me to escape and enjoy myself.” So, if you see Pino around campus, feel free to ask him about basketball— he would love to chat!

In conclusion, Xypher Pino’s journey at Greensboro College illustrates the profound impact of community, personal growth and service. His experiences have shaped his perspective on education and have instilled in him a commitment to helping others. As he prepares for the next chapter in his life, his story serves as an inspiration for future students to embrace their journeys, prioritize relationships and strive for personal and academic fulfillment.