It is my pleasure to introduce you to Stephanie who recently completed her degree as an occupational therapy assistant and is currently enrolled in the Occupational studies bachelor’s degree program. You heard that right? You can earn a bachelor’s degree in occupational studies from a community college right here at Santa Ana College. Now we’re gonna hear Stephanie talk about completing her educational goals while working full time. Stephanie, it’s all yours.
– Hey, Alex. I graduated from Santa Ana College’s occupational therapy assistant program and currently enrolled in their occupational studies bachelor degree program. I chose SAC OTA program because it is a very rewarding career that I’m very passionate about. What’s even better is that this is all for the price of a community college. The SAC OS Bachelor degree program stands out from other schools because this one is designed to be flexible for a full-time practitioner such as myself. I’m able to work and practice occupational therapy while expanding my knowledge with new research on intervention techniques, adaptive equipment, and keeping up with the updated diagnoses. Born and raised in Santa Ana, this college is local to me. However, the OS Bachelor program can be accessible to anyone who’s not local in the area. The way this program is designed allows us to gain real life experience from being hands-on in the classroom and actually applying the skills out to our field work sites. To this day, I carry over the skills taught in the classroom to my therapy treatments with patients. Being in this program, we have professors who are skilled in occupational therapy, I can’t express enough how knowledgeable and helpful our professors are. We even have counselors dedicated to us to help us design our education program and assist us with any questions about the program, financial aid, and guiding us in the right direction. Overall, I couldn’t recommend this program enough to those seeking a career in occupational therapy, our top priority is to help each patient gain their independence back. Thank you for listening everyone. Alex, what’s next?
– Stephanie, you have a passion to serving others. Thank you for that. And what a great deal. Earning a bachelor’s degree in occupational studies for an economical price of about $10,000. How amazing is that? Stephanie, thanks again for sharing your story.
I’d like to introduce you to Giancarlo who’s going to share his point of view. Giancarlo is a transfer student who came from a local private university to pursue a business degree right here at Santa Ana College. His vision is to one day be a business owner. This is a story you don’t wanna miss. Giancarlo, take it away.
– Thank you, Alex, for the introduction. Hello, everybody. How’s it going? Throughout my life, I always knew the kind of person I wanted to be but I never knew where to start to develop and fulfill my potential. Here at Santa Ana College is where my journey began. Moving from a private university to a community college has been one of my best decisions. Learning from professors in the business administration program changed my point of view entirely. I thought business was making money and being your own boss. However, my courses taught me that starting a business takes a lot of planning, creativity, the commitment and patience. Business brings in unlimited connections with people, with jobs, and organizations. If you’re looking to become an entrepreneur a CEO, a sole proprietor, or hey, maybe even one day have your own franchise of your own. Santa Ana College has all the resources you need to get there. The administration office, counselors, and the business department have been great resources for me to reach my educational goals. As a transfer student I needed help readjusting my completed credits from my previous university to my degree here. So I spoke to the counselors here. Thankfully, the business department was super helpful and working to help me earn back those credits. My time here at Santa Ana College has made me realize the importance of earning a degree I am passionate about. I am inspired to make an image for myself and my family by building a business empire around us. My goals are to thrive into my own personalized retail fashion company and inspire other fellow entrepreneurs to achieve their goals. Thank you for hearing my story, guys. Now back to you sir Alex.
– Wow, Giancarlo, you have big dreams and we look so forward to one day seeing your business empire in fashion. Your conviction to pursue and complete your studies and long-term goals is absolutely inspiring. Thank you for sharing.
So I have a question for everyone. Have you ever heard of dual enrollment? Our next student is gonna tell us what’s special about this program here at SAC. Meet Kaya. She’s working to complete her high school diploma and earn college credits at the same time. And guess what? Courses are free. Students participating in dual enrollment at Santa Ana College have nearly doubled since last year. Kaya, please take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi everyone. I am a sophomore in high school at the Orange County School of the Arts where I study acting. This is my first year as a dual enrollment student with Santa Ana College and it has been such a positive experience for me. The dual enrollment program at SAC is an opportunity for all high school students to earn free transferable college credits in a wide variety of subjects. As a dual enrollment student, I have felt welcomed and included, and I’m treated just like any other full-time college student. I receive weekly newsletters about campus events and I’ve gotten the chance to perform at the beautiful Phillips Hall Theater. SAC has given me the incredible opportunity to start earning college credits in the major that I love and I can use those credits towards earning a degree in the future. In my first dual enrollment course, my peers and I created a play that we devised from improv and ensemble work. The faculty here is incredible and has real life experience in their industries. In my current course, I get to work with the amazing head of the theater department. She’s taught us Fitzmaurice Voicework and provided coaching on contemporary and classical monologues to use in future auditions. Attending SAC faculty is always helping me prepare for my future even as a sophomore in high school. I am grateful to be receiving such a rich college level education as a high school student and to be learning from my dedicated professors. Because of the dual enrollment program at Santa Ana College I feel ready and excited to continue my college experience. Back to you, Alex
– Kaya it was so informative to learn that the dual enrollment program cultivates the opportunity for high school students to get an early start on college and save time and money towards a college degree. The best thing is that there are no costs or fees to students or parents, and credits are transferable. My sincere gratitude for you sharing that story. Amazing Kaya.
Okay. Let’s hear from Kajleb, a student majoring in fine and performing arts with a focus on digital media. Kajleb will soon be transferring to pursue his bachelor’s degree at a local California State University. We’re about to hear his experience with the award-winning SAC news team. Kajleb, please share your journey with us.
– Thank you, Alex. And what a privilege it is to be here with you all. Growing up in the Midwest, I was always intrigued by the realms of film and entertainment so I moved to California at 21. The reality was I had no formal training in the fields of film and entertainment, and I kept finding small jobs but they weren’t giving the experience I sought after. So I had a big idea. Why don’t I go to school for this? I decided to enroll at Santa Ana College for Fine and Performing Arts. This gave me the opportunity to go after my heart’s desire and do things I never thought I could. In just one year, I faced a huge fear of being on stage which led me to playing the lead role in two theater productions at school. Working with other students and industry experienced faculty who share the same passion made me feel incredibly supported. I then joined the SAC Student News team where I gained studio experience as an anchor, reporter and editor. I reported on local news and allowed others to share their stories. I took editing audio and production classes where I produced content I never imagined I could create. Collaborating with other students helped my shyness. What a privilege it is to educate yourself. I never thought I’d be back in school studying something I’m passionate about. I’m now going to receive my associate’s degree from Santa Ana College and have been accepted into a California state university to finish my bachelor’s degree. I encourage others to push through their fears and go after your heart’s desires, especially being supported by a great school like Santa Ana College. Back to you Alex.
– Kajleb, what an incredible journey of perseverance. You have a vibrant career ahead of you. Thanks for sharing.
Okay, let’s learn from fire cadet Arron about the Basic Fire Academy. The Santa Ana College Fire Academy program is administered under the guidance of the Orange County Fire Chiefs Association and is nationally recognized as a premier fire training program. Here to share his perspective. Please welcome Aaron.
– Thanks for the intro Alex. What’s going on everyone? My path to the Santa Ana College Basic Fire Academy is somewhat unusual. Right after high school, I got my engineering degree but I wasn’t completely passionate about my respective field and growing up I always wanted to be a firefighter but I never quite had the opportunity to pursue that passion until now. SAC has a great fire technology program with knowledgeable educators from current and retired firefighters. Classes range from fire behavior, protection system, and principles of emergency services which gave me an insight into the fire service and what it’s all about. The SAC Fit Wellness for Public Safety Program helped me prepare physically for the rigors of the Fire Academy. And the EMT program made it easy for many students to get their license and start gaining experience in emergency services. The Fire Academy is a 16-week program that has provided me with many opportunities for hands-on experience, with tools and techniques used by firefighters to protect life, property and the environment. What makes Santa Ana stand out are the instructors. They’re truly here for our success and know exactly what is expected from our local fire departments. We are lucky that the majority of our instructors are active firefighters, engineers, captains and chiefs, or at the top of their profession. The best part has been the relationships I’ve made with the other recruits. Spending 12 hours a day working, learning, and sweating together has really brought us close together. After the academy I’ll have my Firefighter 1 certification which opens the door to many departments. I can’t wait to have a long, healthy career in the fire service and one day come back to be an instructor here at the Academy.
– Wow. Santa Ana College is a home to the largest, finest, and oldest fire technology program in California. Graduates from this program have attained firefighter positions in many departments in California and throughout the United States. Aaron, thank you for choosing to serve as a firefighter and for sharing your story here today. Appreciate it.
Okay, up to bat everyone, we have Jayleena a sophomore majoring in kinesiology and a player on the college softball team. She’s about to share her athletic accomplishment and how the athletic department has supported her. SAC has earned many recent athletic championships including men’s soccer, football, softball, and many, many more. Here to share all the details is Jayleena, you are up.
– Thanks so much for that, Alex. After high school, I decided to follow up on my childhood dream of playing collegiate softball. Santa Ana College has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. Because of SAC, I’m able to obtain my kinesiology degree at my own pace while playing the sport I love. Last year was my first year at SAC and we won conference, advanced to regionals, super regionals, and even the state championship. We broke records and I’m proud to say that I was part of a program that made history. I made so many new friends and met so many new people in just a few short months. My favorite memory from SAC is definitely the state championship. I felt so much love from professors, counselors, and other faculty on campus. Santa Ana College really cares about their student athletes from football to track and field. From day one, we have all felt so welcomed and supported. Our athletic trainers are super involved. They care so much about us on the field and court and off. As I begin my recruitment process to transfer out and continue playing I’ll know I’ll have great assistance from my coaching staff and great support from our athletic counselors. Dons roll. Now back to you Alex
– Jayleena, how exciting to hear about the stellar athletic programs and the phenomenal athletes at Santa Ana College. Congratulations to you, the team, and coaches on your state championship. Absolutely amazing. Thanks, Jayleena.
As a senior and a residential advisor, Naomi’s here to show you around and tell you what she loves about living on this beautiful campus. There’s way more to college life than academics, and the best colleges nurture a balance between living and learning. Take it away, Naomi.
– Thanks so much, Alex. I grew up in Washington state, but I dreamed about going to college in New York and being so close to Manhattan is what drew me to Sarah Lawrence. I’m a senior now and I’ve studied mainly acting and writing but I’ve also taken multiple courses in psychology, neuroscience, and LGBTQ studies. The most surprising thing for me however, was how much I enjoyed my involvement with residential life. I’ve been a residential advisor for three years, being an RA has provided me with both professional development and a sense of belonging at Sarah Lawrence, as I made many of my closest friends during the RA training sessions. which begin before the semester starts. The week before school starts in the fall often feels like summer camp with water balloon fights and designing bulletin boards between sessions on conflict resolution and community building. I’ve lived in a couple of the dorms here at Sarah Lawrence, and they’re all delightfully unique. But no matter where you live on campus, chances are you’ll run into friends hanging out on the lawn, walking to class, and mingling in the Barbara Walters campus Center. Living at SLC is to live among friends. It’s easy to feel a part of the community here as there are hundreds of clubs, student publications, committees, sports, shows and activities to support and invest your time in. While I’ll miss Sarah Lawrence when I graduate, I’m excited to soon join a tight-knit community of SLC alumni, many of whom remain actively involved with the college and offer resources and support to current students. Sarah Lawrence has helped me the importance of community and collaboration, which will impact both my creative endeavors and my personal happiness for our lifetime. Well, thanks for chatting with me. You can have them back now, Alex.
– What a cool place to live, Naomi. Now, over 85% of Sarah Lawrence students live on campus, and there’s so many styles of housing available from traditional dorms to converted houses with plenty of green spaces and cozy gathering spots to connect and create. Thanks again.
Students choosing Sarah Lawrence as their creative home gain access to opportunities rivaling the best arts programs in the nation, no matter where their career aspirations lie. That’s what drew Vance to SLC. His hyphenates include screenwriter, dancer, and vocalist. Here, a sculptor can be a scientist, a filmmaker can be a politician, and a composer can be a historian. Vance, tell us all about it.
– Thanks, Alex. As a boy from an Ecuadorian and Lebanese American household, exposure to multicultural arts has been essential for me. When I learned about Sarah Lawrence and its emphasis on student led liberal arts projects, I knew that it was a great fit. The creative and performing arts at Sarah Lawrence are set up to help students reach their potential. If you want to be trained in jazz vocals, hip hop dance, and screenwriting, you can study all of them at the same time here. I love that on Thursdays, my day starts with working one-on-one with an industry experience screenwriting professor, followed by rehearsing a Sinatra song in the jazz vocal ensemble and ends with a running practice as the captain of Chimaera, the Sarah Lawrence dance team. Chimaera actually takes dance into local communities too, working with Yonkers public schools and the Hudson River Museum to bring K through 12 students dance experiences they may not get elsewhere. But for me, one of the most incredible parts of Sarah Lawrence is the film department. I’ve known more SLC students with selected work for recognition in film festivals than I can count on both hands! I’ve received a few laurels myself, even after starting my first year by accidentally breaking one of the equipment rooms lenses, never making that mistake again. Whatever you wanna study at Sarah Lawrence, you won’t just learn about it here. You’ll be leaving with a professional portfolio and connections. Motivated artists, you are going to thrive here. I’ll be graduating with a distinctive portfolio that I can then take on to masters programs in screenwriting or to compete at top level film festivals. Did I miss anything, Alex? Back to you.
– Nice work, Vance. Sarah Lawrence provides so many opportunities to immerse yourself in the arts. SLC is constantly working to connect talented students with arts internships and cultural experiences throughout New York City and the region. And students benefit from a highly engaged alumni community that includes some of the biggest names in the business. Thanks again for sharing your story, Vance.
Let’s hear from Lilly, a first generation sophomore from Alabama who can tell us all about career services and community partnerships at SLC. The flexibility and rigor Sarah Lawrence education proves time and time again to be excellent career prep and the college is dedicated to helping students connect their interests with exciting professional opportunities. Go for it, Lily.
– Hey y’all, welcome to Sarah Lawrence. I love politics from the thrill of watching a debate to the sense of satisfaction after a successful phone bank. When I was applying to colleges, I knew that I wanted to go somewhere where students are passionate activists, and where faculty and staff are supportive of my career ambitions. Sarah Lawrence is the perfect environment for me. Because of Sarah Lawrence’s unique location, I’ve had the opportunity to attend protests in New York City and the ability to volunteer in Yonkers and other communities in Westchester. I’ve also had the opportunity to work in the Office of Community Partnerships where I’ve been able to connect directly with local nonprofits. It was this love of community and activism that drove me to stop by our career center. Our career counselors helped me create a clear and effective resume, which helped me land my dream internship. I even got to go on an all-expense-paid trip to DC for congressional lobbying and an organizing conference with Planned Parenthood. Coming from Alabama and being a first generation college student, I’m so grateful for this support for navigating a new area and a career. I’m only in my second year at Sarah Lawrence, and I already feel so prepared to enter my career. After Sarah Lawrence, I hope to study public policy in graduate school. I have no doubt that once it’s time to apply to grad schools, I’ll have the full support of this entire Sarah Lawrence community behind me. That’s my story, Alex. The floor is yours.
– You’re hired, Lily! Sarah Lawrence’s career services are so amazing with one-on-one counseling sessions, robust internship, and job databases, interview prep, and events connecting students with tons of top employers. There’s no shortage of opportunities to get out there and build your resume. Thanks again for sharing, Lily.
One tenet of a Sarah Lawrence education is experiential learning, or learning by doing. Meet Ishika, a sophomore study environmental science who takes advantage of a very special SLC research facility along the Hudson River to further her studies and to positively impact the local community. The college does an exceptional job of connecting coursework to real world experiences. Tell us more, Ishika.
– Thank you, Alex. My entire life I’ve had a fascination with the natural world. I knew I needed to go to school somewhere that would allow me to engage with the environment and I found that at Sarah Lawrence. At SLC, I’ve learned about climate change, watersheds. and environmental justice, and I’m highly engaged in advocacy work. I co-chair a sustainability club called Grow and I’m a part of a workshop that aims to make the campus more environmentally responsible. The Sarah Lawrence Interdisciplinary Collaborative on the Environment, or SLICE, brings the humanities and the sciences together through coursework and field trips to local environmental organizations. SLICE is the epitome of a Sarah Lawrence education, as it emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary solutions to our biggest ecological challenges, but my favorite thing about SLC is the Center for the Urban River at Beczak or CURB, as we call it. This environmental education and research center is located on the Hudson River and provides volunteer and internship opportunities to SLC students and community members. At CURB, there are many ways to get involved. For me, that means going out into the Hudson to catch aquatic species, and in the spring, counting migrating American eels that we catch and release. My time at CURB has made me realize that these are the kinds of experiences I wanna have for the rest of my life. I’m looking forward to studying sustainability and marine sciences in graduate school, and this kind of experiential learning is preparing me for my future while also allowing me to have fun along the way. Now, back to you, Alex.
– That’s so fascinating, Ishika! Thank you. The opportunity to study an urban river through so many different interdisciplinary lenses is truly a rare thing. An environmental scientist like yourself will certainly be at the forefront of solving many of the world’s complex and evolving challenges. That was great, thank you.