Darci Choi's Alumni Spotlight

Q: How did PCS impact your undergraduate experience?

Darci: PCS had an incredible impact on my undergraduate experience. The program provided me with new friends that had diverse backgrounds and goals, opportunities to connect with the community of Norman, and the chance to sharpen my leadership skills. There’s only so much you can learn in the classroom — PCS gave me the chance to learn and serve alongside my peers.

Q: What were some unique or exciting experiences you had in PCS?

Darci: I was fortunate to be a participant of the inaugural PCS in Italy program. Studying abroad with my PCS friends and learning about a new community together was unbelievable! I’ll never forget it.

Q: How did your experience in PCS and education at OU prepare you for life after you graduated?

Darci: While serving as PCS Student Advisor, I was able to work directly with a peer and professionals on implementing the PCS program for first-year students. The ability to understand the functions of an office within OU’s Student Affairs showcased all a profession in higher education could offer. It was within that timeframe I decided to study education and pursue a career in higher education. I’m forever grateful that PCS introduced me to a career that I had no idea about! 

Q: What’s one piece of advice you would give to the current and incoming PCS classes?

Darci: Don’t let how often you hear this message distract you from how important it is — your year in PCS goes by so fast. It truly happens in a blink of an eye. It’s an honor to be a part of PCS. Take full advantage of this opportunity. Change your mindset from “I have to” to “I get to.” For example, you don’t have to go to PCS every Thursday…you GET to.

Q: What inspires you most about your work?

Darci: Currently I work to recruit prospective students to the OU Health Sciences Center. I often think about my time as a first-year student in PCS and how I had little direction on what I wanted to do with my life. Remembering that feeling is helpful and inspiring to me — to always be helpful with students exploring a career in healthcare, be patient with the questions students and families may have, and remember that this is an important and pivotal time in a student’s life. It’s so rewarding when a student decides on an academic program because of something they learned from my colleagues or me.

Q: How have you continued to give back to your community as an adult?

Darci: Service and conveying gratitude remain important to me. The lessons I learned in PCS have stuck with me in a few ways. A community thrives when its members pour resources and time into it. Shopping local, supporting local philanthropic efforts, giving time to colleagues or mentees, and striving to thank those around me are a few ways I try to give to my community.

Q: What are some words you live by?

Darci: “You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give.” Winston Churchill

Q: What would you say to your fellow PCS alumni and parents that would encourage them to give on Giving Day?

Darci: Whether PCS was the cherry on top of your college decision, or it made all the difference to be able to go to OU — PCS offers every member a life-changing experience or lesson. I was accepted to PCS 10 years ago and continue to draw on the lessons I learned from this organization. The friendships, mentorship and memories are truly forever. Don’t wait to make a difference in a student’s life. Give to PCS! It is so worth it.