Indian River State College Recognizes Angelina Burbank as Spring 2024 Military and Veterans Services (MVS) Student Spotlight

July 10, 2024 Indian River State College

Angelina Burbank

Indian River State College is proud to announce Angelina Burbank as the Spring 2024 Military and Veterans Services (MVS) Student Spotlight. Burbank, a member of the Florida Army National Guard, exemplifies dedication to both her military service and academic pursuits.

Burbank has served in the Florida Army National Guard for three years. As a Human Resource Specialist, she has developed valuable leadership skills that have translated well into her academic and extracurricular activities at Indian River State College.

“The knowledge I gained in the National Guard empowers me to address, advise, and personally take care of fellow soldiers, ensuring their human resource needs are met,” she said. “My journey in the National Guard has not only enabled me to learn and grow professionally and personally but it also has given me the confidence to embrace my identity as a Hispanic woman of Panamanian and Bolivian decent and to continue to be an inspiration to others.”

Burbank graduated from Fort Pierce Central High School in 2021, where she participated in JROTC and held leadership roles. She went to basic combat training at Fort Jackson in 2021 and advanced individual training in 2022. In basic combat training, she was named an Honor Graduate. In advanced individual training, she was awarded the Commandant’s List Top 3 out of her graduating class. She is her family’s first female and third generation soldier.

Angelina is currently pursuing an Associate in Science degree in the Pre-Dental Hygiene Health Science Track. She just completed the program’s prerequisites, maintaining an impressive 3.8 cumulative GPA.

“My passion towards becoming a dental hygienist has come from wanting to help people in health care but more specifically in the dental field, because it satisfies me to see how much happier and confident patients are after they receive a brighter smile,” Burbank said.

Her academic excellence is matched by her extensive involvement in campus organizations. She is an active member of HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) and the Health and Self Club. She is president of the Student Veterans of America (SVA), having previously held the positions of secretary and vice president. Burbank served as vice president of service and co-president of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Nu Iota chapter.

“It felt good to know that I would be part of PTK, a group that is very dedicated to school, and that I could also participate in their fellowship and service,” she said.

Burbank's commitment to community service is evident through her participation in numerous events, such as fundraiser car washes, the American Red Cross Holiday for Heroes, and the Out of Darkness Treasure Coast - American Foundation Suicide Prevention Walk. She also contributed to the Night to Shine event, among many others.

Reflecting on her Indian River State College experience, Burbank shared, "One of the most memorable experiences at Indian River State College was going on the Universal Studios trip and helping out at the 2024 NJCAA Swimming Championships hosted at Indian River State College." She credits her military background for instilling the leadership qualities that have allowed her to mentor fellow students and create opportunities for community engagement.

When asked if she would recommend Indian River State College to other veterans, Burbank enthusiastically affirmed, "Yes! I absolutely would recommend Indian River State College to any veterans, whether they are retired or still in service." She praised the support provided by veteran advisors, particularly during her active duty orders, and commended the school's Accounts Receivable/Finance teams for their understanding of military education benefits.

Burbank also highlighted the flexibility and support of Indian River State College professors in accommodating her military duties. "The professors I have had during my time at Indian River State College have always been super understanding of my military duties and were able to work with me if I had to miss a period of time to fulfill my duties," she explained.

Angelina embodies the spirit of service and academic excellence that Indian River State College strives to foster in all its students.

Indian River State College is honored to recognize Angelina Burbank as the Spring 2024 Military and Veterans Services (MVS) Student Spotlight, celebrating her achievements and contributions to both the college and the broader community.