Paula Correa has always felt called to help others. As a student employee in the Government Relations Department at State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF), she is turning that lifelong purpose into hands-on experience in public service, policy and advocacy.

“I was sure that my future career would involve helping others in some way or another,” Correa said.

Correa’s interest in politics and justice deepened after her family moved to the United States, where she became more aware of how government and law shape people’s lives. That awareness led her to pursue political science and law; a passion further solidified during her internship with the Public Defender’s Office. There, she observed real cases and gained firsthand exposure to the legal system, confirming her desire to work in public service.

Now, as a student employee with SCF’s Government Relations Department, Correa is gaining valuable, real-world experience in communications and outreach. Her work includes assisting with social media initiatives and filming projects, taking part in meetings and supporting a variety of projects that help her learn how the College communicates its mission and priorities to the broader community.

“Student employees like Paula play an important role in helping our Government Relations team communicate the value of SCF to policymakers and the public,” said Jamie M. Smith, Associate Vice President of Government Relations and Public Information Officer at SCF. “Through this experience, she is gaining a practical understanding of how government relations supports student success, workforce development and community impact.”

Correa credits her father as a major influence on her values and definition of success. Growing up, her family often spent holidays giving to others instead of receiving.

“We spent countless Christmases giving instead of receiving,” Correa said. “My dad was born into a poor family, so he knows what it feels like to have nothing. He always said that the warmth you feel in your chest when you share what you have is God, and that is my definition of being successful in life — having room in your heart for others and being empathetic.”

Before attending SCF, Correa earned a technical degree in Business Management and Administration from Suncoast Technical College. The background allowed her to blend her interest in business with her commitment to service, a combination that continues to shape her academic and professional goals.

Correa plans to pursue a career in law, with aspirations of owning her own practice while developing multiple sources of income, including real estate. With long-term financial stability, she hopes to create programs and facilities that provide legal assistance, housing opportunities, scholarships and help with essential expenses, while also pursuing political leadership.

“We all need help from time to time,” Correa said. “I want to be the reason someone is able to keep going and follow their dreams.”

She says SCF has played a key role in preparing her for that future by offering affordable education and meaningful experiential learning opportunities.

“If I had to choose again, I would definitely choose SCF,” Correa said.

Her advice for new students is rooted in courage and perseverance.

“That dream is in your heart for a reason,” she said. “If it scares you, run toward it. That is the only way you can grow. Don’t ever give up and always honor what’s in your heart.”