TRIO Student Highlight – Carmine Peterson
Carmine Petersen is a sophomore Pharmacy major at SDSU, experiencing his first year on campus as a transfer student. Originally from Sioux Falls and proud to be a first‑generation college student, he has embraced the transition to SDSU with enthusiasm, curiosity and a drive to get involved.
Since arriving on campus, Carmine has immersed himself in a variety of organizations that reflect both his passions and his academic goals. He joined The Pride of the Dakotas Marching Band and concert band after hearing countless stories about the unforgettable experiences the Pride offers. “I wanted to be a part of that,” he shared. His involvement in SCAPP, Kappa Epsilon, pharmacy‑related organizations has helped him explore his major more deeply and build meaningful connections within the field. These groups have introduced him to opportunities he didn’t even know existed and connected him with students who share similar interests.
Being involved on campus has shaped his SDSU experience in powerful ways. Through marching band, he found their closest friends and became part of a community “larger than myself,” surrounded by talented and likeminded individuals. His academic organizations have expanded his understanding of pharmacy and opened doors to new possibilities. He joined TRIO in fall 2025, motivated by the chance to meet people from different backgrounds and learn about the resources TRIO provides. That sense of community and support quickly became an important part of his college journey.
TRIO’s services have played a key role in his transition to SDSU. “Tutoring was extremely helpful in harder classes like anatomy and physiology,” he explained, noting how one‑on‑one sessions allowed him to focus on the areas he found most challenging. TRIO advising was equally impactful, especially during his transfer process. Having a dedicated advisor made navigating the transition smoother and far less overwhelming.
For students considering TRIO, Carmine offers simple but meaningful advice: reach out. “Have a conversation with a TRIO staff member about your situation,” he encourages. “TRIO is here to help students, and using their services may be just what you need to make your college experience the best it can be.”
