Grad Spotlight: Christian Ramos

After relocating from Puerto Rico to the mainland at the age of four following a devastating hurricane, NCC graduate Christian Ramos grew up understanding resilience and the value of opportunity. Although his family had little when they arrived in the Lehigh Valley, Ramos always knew education would be the path to building something sustainable. 

Inspired by his aunt who attended Northampton Community College (NCC), Ramos began his academic journey at NCC in 2005, initially studying computer science. Although he excelled in technology in high school, his lifelong interest in the life sciences ultimately led him to switch to biological science.  

In 2016, the passing of his father after long term illness caused Ramos to take a step back. “I was incredibly close to him, and it was, and still is, very difficult to deal with. I needed some time to find myself again.” 

His circumstances led him to put his education on hold, and he started as a cook in the restaurant industry while learning on the job. 

In December 2022, Ramos was in a serious car accident that resulted in a traumatic brain injury, requiring re-learning of basic skills, like walking, and navigating sensory challenges, like tinnitus and hand-eye coordination. “Some of your deepest and darkest thoughts come to surface when you go through these things, but we have to reckon with those to move forward.” 

Ramos persevered — returning to work, adapting to new environments, and eventually finding the strength to return to NCC to complete the final courses needed to earn his degree.  

Graduating in fall 2024 with a degree in biological science, his passion remains rooted in helping others live better lives through science. “I care about protecting the environment and the people around me. There are really important things affecting us as human beings – we just have to find ways to communicate it. I believe it is possible for people to come to a consensus.” 

Ramos plans to continue his education at DeSales University as he seeks opportunities in his field to make a difference. Eventually, he would like to work in Puerto Rico and return to his hometown of Pounce.  

“I can be proud of everything I’ve accomplished, but I couldn’t have done it without NCC. This college represents what communities are meant to do—help people succeed when they don’t have a clear road to drive on,” he shares.