Let’s shift gears and head to CCBC Catonsville, home to the Cardinals. Lets meet Ryan. He was able to expand on his love of working on cars and earn an Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology degree at CCBC. He now works full-time in the automotive lab at CCBC, passing his knowledge on to students. Ok Ryan, you’re in the driver’s seat, take it away.
Thanks for the introduction Alex. When I graduated from my high school’s automotive technology program, I didn’t see myself as college material. All I cared about was working under the hood of a car. Heck, I had been working since I was 16 as an automotive apprentice technician. Then I was referred to CCBC and its unique General Motors Automotive Service Educational Program. I decided to give it a try and pursue a career as an automotive technician. I fell in love with the program, where I found myself in the company of other “gearheads” like myself. In CCBC’s automotive program, I alternated between taking hands-on lab coursework for eight weeks, then spending another eight weeks working at a car dealership, applying what I’d learned in the classroom on the job, and making money at the same time. I enjoyed it so much, it didn’t feel like I was going to college. At CCBC, tuition is very affordable and some employers offer tuition reimbursement. I was fortunate to receive General Motors Scholarships that left me with a small tuition. In addition to CCBC’s affordability, the faculty and staff surround students with support and resources. Their goal is to set students up for careers that will take them places. CCBC’s Automotive degree programs have a nearly 100 percent job placement rate for students upon graduation. After graduating, I transferred to a four-year institution in Michigan that accepted all my CCBC credits. I earned a bachelor’s degree in Automotive Engineering Technology, and completed an internship with GM running vehicle crash tests. Today, I am back at CCBC, teaching in the Automotive program, with my hands under the hood, passing along skills to students as they hop on the road to success.Thank you for the opportunity to tell my story Alex.
Ryan, what a cool story. Your time as a CCBC student sounded amazing. You gained technical skills and hands-on work experience while also earning a degree, and you had fun along the way. Now you are helping steer CCBC students in the right direction. That is awesome. Take care.
Now it’s time to hear from current CCBC student and future dental hygienist Philemon. Philemon plans to build on the educational foundation he is getting at CCBC and transfer to dental school. Jobs in the healthcare industry are in high demand and CCBC is training students like Philemon to fulfill the needs of the local workforce. Philemon, tell us more.
Thank you very much Alex for the introduction, and hello everyone! My story began when I moved to the United States at age six with my family. My parents did all they could to put hot food on the table and to make sure I had a comfortable childhood. As they worked to establish a life here, my parents showed me that hard work always pays off. Now I am 23 and I find myself in the company of people who have a similar hardworking spirit — the students and faculty here at CCBC. As a student enrolled in CCBC’s Dental Hygiene program, I am academically challenged every day to thrive and succeed. The program is one of many offered within CCBC’s School of Health Professions which is training a workforce to fill jobs that are in high demand in the healthcare industry. I represent this future workforce as I study and train at CCBC to become a dental hygienist. My classes and clinics are comprehensive and student-centric. The learning facilities are state-of-the-art and the faculty are well-educated and highly-engaged. When I graduate, I will be ready for regional and state licensing examinations and the National Dental Hygiene Board Examination. Outside the classroom, I love how CCBC is a diverse community with many opportunities for students to bond with each other through activities and clubs supported by the Student Life department. The opportunities are endless to surround yourself with like-minded people who are striving to be their best. Looking to the future, I plan to apply to dental school and continue pursuing my career dreams using the foundation CCBC gave me. If you are thinking about applying to CCBC, I say go for it and I can’t wait to meet you.
Alex, take it away!
Philemon, you’ve literally come a long way my friend in your educational journey. It’s awesome you found the right environment at CCBC to excel in with the support of your professors and you are sure to inspire others. Good luck on your journey to dental school. Take care.
Let’s make our way over to CCBC Dundalk, home of the Lions, to meet Nichelle. Nichelle is loving life as her own boss. She came to CCBC with a business idea that blossomed into much more than she could have ever imagined. Hear how Nichelle made lemonade out of lemons and is squeezing all she can out of her dreams.
Thanks Alex! Hey everyone! Do you have a business idea but need help making it happen? CCBC could help turn your dream into a reality. They did it for me, and they could do it for you. My career path has twisted and turned, but CCBC has been with me every step of the way. After I graduated from high school, I enrolled at CCBC, took Psychology courses and earned good grades. But I was anxious to work and start making money. I put my studies aside, worked odd jobs, and then met my fiancée, Todd. Todd and I had a mutual love of healthy living and clean eating. Our friends and family loved our juice recipes, and we realized this love of ours could become a business. We founded the Treehouse Juicery. As demand for our products grew, we needed more funding and business expertise as first-time entrepreneurs. This is where my path crossed with CCBC again. CCBC provided direct support to help me get my business off the ground. Through the Center for Business Innovation, I received mentorship from other business owners and developed a comprehensive business plan for the Treehouse Juicery. This business plan actually won seed money from CCBC during an annual competition designed to foster entrepreneurship. The pandemic slowed my progress, but CCBC stepped in to help again, and invited me to take part in an eight-month business accelerator mentorship program. Today, Treehouse Juicery products are sold in local stores and a physical storefront is in the works. I am proud to call myself a business owner and to work as my own boss. But I couldn’t have done it without CCBC, where I learned that a little innovation and discipline can take you farther than you could have ever imagined. Back to you Alex!
Nichelle, what a fantastic story about how you boosted your business idea and made it a reality. Making the most of CCBC’s amazing resources that are available to entrepreneurs like yourself in the community was a wise move. We are all wishing you the very best. Take care.
I can’t wait to introduce Francessca, who is studying psychology and wants to give children the same help she received growing up. Francessca will tell us how CCBC’s online degree programs opened up a whole new world of possibilities and is making her career dreams accessible and easily within her reach. Okay Francessca, you have us all intrigued, take it away.
Thanks Alex, So a bit about me – growing up wasn’t easy. I have rare health issues and spent my teen years in and out of hospitals. For my sweet 16 I got a different pair of wheels than I expected – a set of hot pink wheelchair wheels. Caring hospital staff helped me through that time in my life, and now I want to give back and help children facing similar challenges. My dream is to work in health care as a child life specialist, and online classes at CCBC are making a college education accessible and achievable for me. When I open my computer, I’m connected to a world of endless possibilities. CCBC offers so many online classes to choose from. Currently I’m enrolled in a psychology course and I love it. The flexibility of the online classes allows me to work at my own pace, and the professors are engaging and always helpful, even in the virtual classroom. Virtual tutoring is also available and has helped me earn good grades.
Being the first in my family to navigate college, I’ve had many questions. For extra support, CCBC connected me with a staff member called a Success Navigator who has helped find the extra resources I need to succeed at CCBC. For example when my laptop broke just before the semester started, my Success Navigator hooked me up with a new one quickly. How cool is that?
Thanks to CCBC, college no longer feels scary. I always try to see the good amongst the bad, and while I’ve had to overcome so many obstacles, CCBC has helped me realize a college education is attainable and with my degree, I will make a difference.
Thanks for listening, back to you, Alex.
Francesca, your story about overcoming life’s challenges while keeping your eye on your goal is truly phenomenal. With support from CCBC, you found a way to push aside the obstacles standing in your way, and now your path is clear. We know you will make a difference helping others someday soon. Thank you!
Okay let’s head over to CCBC’s Essex campus, home of the fighting Knights. Let’s meet up with Asia who is gonna tell us about her aspirations to become a teacher and how a Maryland Community College ‘Promise Scholarship’ has made an education at CCBC affordable. Asia is always up for an academic challenge, but she still finds time for fun. Asia, tell us more.
Thanks Alex! Hi everyone! When I was younger, I always had my head in a book. Today, you can still find me reading at CCBC where I am channeling my passions into pursuing an associate degree in Elementary Education. My goal is to become an English teacher one day, and CCBC is helping me make that dream a reality. After I graduated from high school, I had a lot of colleges to choose from, but CCBC was my top choice because I could stay close to my family and friends and achieve my goals at an affordable price. We all know college isn’t cheap, but CCBC met my financial needs through generous financial aid and scholarships, including the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship. I also received scholarship money through CCBC’s Honors Program. There is so much to learn and explore through CCBC’s course offerings. In addition to classes where I am learning how to become an effective teacher, I am also enrolled in computer science, psychology, statistics, performing arts and athletics classes. That may sound rigorous, but at CCBC, we work hard and play hard! With plenty of activities offered outside the classroom, you’ll never be bored. I joined the Aspiring Educators Club, a national association that promotes leadership and helps educators be more effective in the classroom. The Honors Program also keeps me busy. We have our own gathering hangout, and we host cookouts and free ice cream days on campus. As you can see, CCBC offers so many ways students can write their own stories, inside and outside the classroom. The scholarships I received helped me start my story here, and now I can use the money I saved to plot the next chapters in my future. Back to you Alex!
Asia, thank you for that inspiring story that is sure to have a happy ending thanks to the educational foundation CCBC is giving you. You are gaining knowledge and leadership skills and also saving money. A big congrats on all your incredible accomplishments and good luck in your future teaching career.
I want you to meet Gabrielle, a journalism major with an outside concentration in psychology, from central California. Pepperdine’s small student body and low student-to-faculty ratio gives students unparalleled access to state-of-the-art facilities, resources, and remarkable professors who are committed to mentorship and student learning both in and out of the classroom. Let’s go to Gabrielle to learn about academics at Pepperdine.
Hey everyone! Growing up, I loved writing and storytelling. I became involved in my elementary school’s broadcast news program, but it wasn’t until middle school that I realized I wanted to pursue a career in journalism. While working on a project in my 7th grade English class, I discovered Pepperdine and quickly fell in love. Being a first-generation college student, I worried that I might struggle finding a sense of community at Pepperdine. By getting involved with different clubs and organizations, I found my place. I joined the Latinx Student Alliance, the Catholic Student Association, and I became involved in student journalism by joining the Pepperdine Graphic and NewsWaves. I ultimately chose to attend Pepperdine because I knew I would receive an excellent education and create memories that I couldn’t get anywhere else. The small class sizes make it easier to talk to classmates and professors, without feeling intimidated. One thing that I love about the classes at Pepperdine is how interwoven everything feels. A topic that you are learning in one class is often an important talking point in another. While courses at Pepperdine can be very challenging, professors have always been willing to lend a helping hand and help me succeed. I can also go to office hours, or access student-led tutoring in the library.I believe that I’m receiving a very well-rounded education at Pepperdine. But, my major courses are my favorite part. I’ve learned so much about my field of study with hands-on experiences. Being involved in the video section of The Graphic has helped me gain confidence in my writing and production skills. I know that once I join the workforce I will be prepared, thanks to student journalism at Pepperdine! Well, that’s my story! Throwing it back to you, Alex.
At Pepperdine, students are challenged and supported intellectually, physically, socially, and spiritually, whether studying Business Administration, Advertising, Art History, Creative Writing, International Studies, Biology, Philosophy, or Economics. Thanks, Gabrielle, for telling us how you have felt challenged and supported as a student at Pepperdine – I can’t wait to see your career in journalism unfold.
Let’s hear from Claire, a sophomore Communication Studies major from Dallas, Texas. Claire is going to tell us what initially drew her to Pepperdine and describe the ways her academic pursuits, professional goals, and desire to serve have been championed and supported. And why? Well, the Pepperdine affirmation holds “That knowledge calls, ultimately, for a life of service.” Claire, take it away.
Thank you, Alex! Hey everyone! I was drawn to Pepperdine for its recognition as an institution of academic excellence and close-knit community. I knew Pepperdine was right for me because its focus on Christian principles and the mission of purpose, service, and leadership aligns with my personal values.I have a passion for broadcast journalism and Pepperdine has exposed me to how news works, both in front of and behind the camera. NewsWaves, a student-run news program at Pepperdine, allowed me to try many aspects of production, such as anchoring and producing. For students wanting to pursue a career in News Programming, this is an excellent opportunity to experience how news works.As part of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, I have a group of women who inspire me to be a leader every day, as well as networking that can be beneficial to me even long after graduation.I was drawn to Pepperdine’s emphasis on service, and being in a sorority has provided many opportunities. Kappa Alpha Theta supports and raises money for the Court Appointed Special Advocates organization. CASA appoints volunteers for foster children who are unable to advocate for themselves in court. I’ve served on my sorority’s Philanthropy Committee, and am currently serving as our Recruitment Director. At Pepperdine, there is always an opportunity to serve, whether with a local organization, helping a friend in need, raising money, or leading a student organization. Pepperdine hosts events like “Step Forward Day” and “Waves of Flags,” where students, faculty, and alumni come together to serve local organizations and honor the lives lost on 9/11. At Pepperdine, I am not only learning skills for my chosen career path, but helping others and making an impact on the world while achieving my dreams. That’s all I have for you, so, back to you, Alex!
Thanks, Claire! It is inspiring to hear how Pepperdine students care about serving others. In fact, nearly ¾ of the student body engage in service. Whether through the Community Engagement and Service Office, Greek life, or international programs, Pepperdine students make a positive impact on communities and people in the Greater Los Angeles area, across the US, and around the world.
Although a lot of undergraduate research in the sciences at Pepperdine happens in the lab, Nolan, a senior biology major, is going to talk to us about doing research in his favorite place – the great outdoors. He is one of many Pepperdine students who engage in important, compelling undergraduate research with their faculty. Tell us your story, Nolan.
Hey Alex! Thanks for that super cool intro! Coming from Westlake Village, California, I’ve always been an avid outdoorsman, so when I learned there was a field of science that was based around hiking I knew what I was doing with my life. Speaking of super cool, let’s talk about Pepperdine and what drove me to come to this amazing school! I have been a part of Dr. Kat’s Behavioral Ecology Lab since before I attended this school. Visiting campus and being able to get involved so easily, I knew Pepperdine was the place for me. I am a leader of the lab this year, and led the United States Geological Surveys this past summer adding my mark to a thirty-year long database. Studying this guy. The California newt is one of the most toxic animals on the planet! Luckily our skin is thick enough to not allow the toxin to penetrate my body! This upcoming semester we have multiple projects in motion working in the field and in the lab. One that I am particularly excited for is our Poison dart frog project! Outside of the lab, the university is located only three hours away from snowy mountains and five minutes from the beach. With wonderful hiking and climbing spots, this area has it all! When you get hungry after all these activities, there is no shortage of fantastic locally-sourced food options that will have you coming back for more! Pepperdine has equipped me with the tools needed to thrive in a field that I love. With a well-rounded curriculum nurturing a mindset of thinking bigger than me, and preparing me to work with parks and rec, fish and wildlife, or other sustainable future outlets. Enough about me! Let’s hear from some other waves, take it away Alex!
Thanks, Nolan – I didn’t know that newts could be poisonous! In each academic division and major, students have the opportunity to engage in research projects with their professors. Conducting research, presenting at local and national conferences, and publishing articles in academic journals is a notable achievement that’s sure to be valuable for resumes and graduate school applications! Cheers, Nolan!
I can’t wait to introduce you to Charlotte, a transfer student from Atlanta, Georgia. She is majoring in International Studies with a Global Politics emphasis, and a German Language Minor. Her internship experiences serve as an excellent example of how Pepperdine students can explore their professional goals by engaging with other students and professionals on issues that shape our future, from international trade to diplomacy and human rights. Charlotte, you’re up.
Thanks so much Alex! Hello everyone! I transferred to Pepperdine because I admire the schools and immediately knew that I needed to be part of their Global Fellows Program, a certificate program geared towards changemakers and global leaders. Since being at Pepperdine, I have interned with the United States Agency for International Development, the Department of Defense, and a climate summit in Austria this past summer. During my internship with the Department of Defense, I participated in the development of AUKUS, the new defense cooperation agreement between Australia, the UK and the US. I also participated in discussions on technology security matters with Japan and Taiwan, National Security Council-led discussions on civil-nuclear cooperation, and DoD deliberations on responses to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.While working in the DoD, I took classes at Pepperdine’s Washington, DC campus to expand my knowledge of global events that I could apply outside of the classroom. I am confident in my ability to handle stressful situations and pursue a life of Purpose, Service, and Leadership.Pepperdine encourages students to gain meaningful experiences and explore whatever career field they are interested in! The Career Center has helped me become a competitive job applicant through their career advisors. I met one-on-one with an industry specialist to polish my resume, discuss future plans, and gain interview insight. At Pepperdine I have explored several career options including humanitarian assistance through key international research projects at USAID, working with Allies to promote peace, or hosting dialogues with Nobel Prize Winners on various scenarios of climate change. Be curious, ask questions, and say yes to opportunities as they arise – you’ll probably find out something about yourself that you didn’t know. That’s all I’ve got to say Alex, back to you!
Charlotte – the breadth of your experience as a student is so impressive – We can’t wait to see what your future holds. And for those of you who are interested in getting real-world experience, the local, national, and international internship opportunities at Pepperdine are abound. Thank you, Charlotte.
Meet Michael, a double major in PoliSci and Sociology, to talk about student life at Pepperdine. With student clubs and organizations of every type, an active student government, Greek life, a strong athletic tradition, a thousand plus on-campus events each year, intramural and club sports, theater and dance productions, and spiritual life activities every day of the week, it’s easy to create a college experience that feels made just for you. Take it away.
Thanks for the introduction, Alex! When deciding where to go to college, finding a supportive community where I could thrive socially and academically was extremely important to me. One of the core things that makes Pepperdine stand out is the student life. This place is not just a college campus, but my second home. Pepperdine’s tight-knit community is incredible, not just because of the beautiful Malibu views, caring professors, or strong academic programs…but because of the people. Whatever I’m going through, I’ll always have supportive friends who will be there for me, get coffee with me, and pray with me. I have always had a strong interest in bringing people together. Freshman Year, I served in Student Government as Freshman Class President. This year I am on the Executive Board as VIce President of Administration. These leadership opportunities have shown me the variety of ways to participate in student life. With over 100 student clubs and organizations, there are so many ways to get involved, feel included, and thrive on campus. Pepperdine also has a plethora of long-standing events and traditions, like Blue and Orange Madness, Reel Stories Film Festival, and Winterfest. My favorite tradition is Late Night Breakfast, where all students are invited to the cafe for free breakfast before the start of finals week. The best part: the food is served by our incredible professors. Pepperdine has really given me the space and resources to feel confident and grow as a student. Everyone says that you meet your “friends forever” in college, and I can personally attest to this. Student life at Pepperdine is only growing stronger, and I know that even after I graduate, no matter where I go in life, I will always be supported by the life long friends I made while at Seaver College.
Thanks, Michael. I loved hearing about your community at Pepperdine. Meeting new people and making meaningful connections can be challenging in college. It’s evident that cultivating a sense of belonging among students at Pepperdine is a big priority! Great job!