When Dileep Chandran graduated from Norwalk Community College in 2016, it marked the completion of a decade-long journey filled with determination and sacrifice.

He balanced his studies with long hours working at a local gas station for minimum wage. Every class came at the cost of saving and planning, yet he remained steady. “It took me almost ten years to finish my associate degree,” he recalls. “It was hard. But I learned to be consistent in whatever I do, even if it is at a slower rate.”

The classroom brought lessons beyond academics. Dileep remembers Humanities Professor Dr. Howard, who asked him to leave class for challenging his ideas—twice. On graduation day, Dileep sought him out. “I wanted to take a picture with Dr. Howard because he was my favorite professor,” he says. “My friend thought I was crazy, but I still have that photo.”

For Dileep, NCC was more than a place of study. It was a training ground in persistence, resilience, and perspective. His advice to today’s students reflects that spirit, “Having a difficult life is good for you. Always remember there are people less fortunate than you.”

Today, Dileep is the founder of Clean Bees, a Norwalk-based business recognized with the 2025 Small Business Award by the Greater Norwalk Chamber of Commerce. Beyond building a successful company, he takes pride in serving the same community that supported him; proving that perseverance and gratitude can create both opportunity and impact.