Hudson County Community College Student Wins National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Student Essay Contest
May 16, 2025
Felix Cintron’s inspiring essay about faculty mentorship was selected from 160 entries.
May 16, 2025, Jersey City, NJ – The mentoring relationship between student and instructor fosters growth through
engagement, skills development, and sharing wisdom and insight.
Such is the case with Hudson County Community College (HCCC) student Felix Cintron
and HCCC Chemistry Professor Raffi Manjikian. Their bond is captured in Felix’s essay,
one of three selected as winners from more than 160 entries in the National Institute
for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Student Essay Contest. Students were
asked to describe a faculty member, staff member, or administrator who encouraged
them to persevere in their studies, finish a semester, or graduate from college. Felix
nominated Professor Manjikian as his inspiration for pursuing his college degree.
Felix and Professor Manjikian will each receive a $1,000 prize, and travel and lodging
to the NISOD International Conference on Teaching and Leadership Excellence in Austin,
Texas later this month. Felix’s essay will be published on the NISOD website, and
the College will receive a complimentary 2025-2026 NISOD membership.
Hudson County Community College student Felix Cintron (left) won the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Student Essay Contest for recounting how his relationship with Dr. Raffi Manjikian (right) transformed his life.
The relationship began in an unlikely place: Felix was Professor Manjikian’s personal trainer, guiding him through strength training techniques and supporting and monitoring his progress. They connected instantly over fitness. Although Felix felt comfortable in the discipline of a gym environment, his conversations with Professor Manjikian broadened into deeper life reflections. Felix had spent years longing for goals beyond physical fitness advocacy. Professor Manjikian, the HCCC Chemistry Instructor, All College Council Vice-Chair, and President’s Advisory Council on Institutional Engagement and Excellence (PACIEE) Co-Chair, convinced Felix to reach his full potential with three seemingly simple words: “Hudson is Home!” The pronouncement and accompanying encouragement compelled Felix to enroll at HCCC, major in Criminal Justice, and rediscover his love for learning. Professor Manjikian became a guiding force, pushing Felix to embrace the discomfort of growth, view setbacks as stepping stones, and believe in his abilities.
“The transition was challenging. I had been out of school for more than 35 years and self-doubt started to creep in. These fears loomed large, but Professor Manjikian never wavered in his encouragement,” Felix wrote in his essay, “Navigating My Journey: From Early Stages to Graduation.” “My journey has been shaped by resilience, determination, and the kindness of a mentor who saw my potential before I did. Looking back, I realize that my story is not just about education, it is about transformation, the power of mentorship, the importance of taking chances, and the courage to step into the unknown.”
“Felix Cintron exemplifies why it’s never too late to pursue a dream that may have lain dormant,” said HCCC President Dr. Christopher Reber. “Raffi Manjikian proudly demonstrates the HCCC community’s power to transform lives and to truly make ‘Hudson Home!’ The entire HCCC family congratulates them both.”
Professor Manjikian shared: “I am incredibly proud of Felix and truly humbled to have played a role in shaping his path. Witnessing his growth over these past few years – his curiosity, perseverance, and passion – has been both an honor and a pleasure. Seeing him now, on the brink of a new academic chapter as he graduates from HCCC this semester, fills me with joy. I am excited to watch his dedication and talent continue to lead him to new heights.”
“Each year, NISOD’s Student Essay Contest celebrates the powerful impact that faculty, staff, and administrators have on student success. These inspiring essays highlight the dedication, mentorship, and support that make a real difference in students’ lives,” said Kris Tolman, NISOD Interim Associate Director. “We are honored to recognize both the students who share their stories and the individuals at our member colleges who inspire them.”
To read Felix’s winning essay, go to https://www.nisod.org/membership/student-essay-contest/submission/?essayToken=12795be2d054817bbce90ae46afa51ffe4027a37