Set point: Meet PNW 2023 graduate Patricia Dizon
Patricia Dizon, ’23, is graduating with a bachelor of science in Computer Information Technology, with a concentration in Cybersecurity.
The Arlington Heights, Illinois native has played five seasons for Pride women’s tennis. She has also served as a peer mentor in Athletics and as a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).
After graduation, Dizon says she would like to enter coaching and begin a career mentoring and guiding various levels of tennis athletes.
Why did you choose to attend PNW?
“I don’t live that far from PNW, so that was a major positive. PNW also gave me so many opportunities to grow academically and athletically. I wanted to grow as a person, so with PNW being an NCAA Division II school it was a good balance where I could compete at a high level while getting an amazing academic opportunity.”
What did you like most about PNW?
“I think the community was my favorite aspect. There’s a sense of a welcoming community here, like a family.
Besides academics, college is about growing as a person. I was able to meet so many different people from different walks of life, cultures, and ethnicities. I have a lot of international teammates. It was a great eye-opener seeing different walks of life at a diverse school.”
What did you like most about your program?
“What I like about information technology is that it’s like problem-solving. Solving a problem is like a tennis match — you have to look at the best and most efficient ways to make a mobile app, or what is the best way to protect your network in cybersecurity without it costing too much. Of course, on projects you have to work as a team.”
What words of advice would you share with prospective students looking to attend PNW?
“Enjoy every minute of it. When I first came here, I was so focused on school and tennis, but I took time to meet new people and go to different activities on campus. It’s a big part of the whole college experience that you shouldn’t miss out on.
Also, be very diligent and organize your time well. All of these things can be done, but you have to manage your time.”
Was there anyone at PNW who inspired or encouraged you along the way?
Computer Technology Specialist
Although she wasn’t one of my professors, she was a mentor. Being away from your parents can be hard, but she helped me adjust academically and personally.
Assistant Athletic Director for Academic Services, Senior Woman Administrator
She was there for me during times that I needed someone the most with the emotional side of things or how stressful school was. She was someone I could talk to to be able to manage everything.
Meet the Spring 2023 Graduates
Discover what inspires our remarkable Spring 2023 graduates—and how they are Powering Onward to their futures.