It’s time to meet Leila, a junior public health science major from Bueno Park, California. Fullerton College offers a robust set of STEM programs designed to equip students with the skills needed for careers in high-demand fields. Leila, we are all excited to hear about what you’re learning in the classroom. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Going into college, I had a tough time choosing where to attend, but after choosing Fullerton College, I knew I made the right decision. I had no idea what I wanted to major in, but I knew Fullerton could guide me through the process. Feeling supported is something you can come across all around campus. One of my greatest experiences is with the STEM Success Learning community. The program brings together students who share a common interest in STEM and provides extra support, including counseling and guidance. This educational community helped me explore other careers, eventually leading me to public health science. Fullerton College’s investment in value in STEM lies in its many opportunities and career and transfer pathways. This includes internships, field trips, student panels, workshops, transfer agreements, and so much more. A great resource on campus is the Math and Computer Science Tutoring Lounge. If you’re ever struggling or just need a place to study, the lounge has tutors and study areas available at the ready. A college education is more than just learning skills for a job. Learning to be a part of the campus community as a cheerleader was just as important. Cheer has been important to me ever since I was little. When I was team captain, I learned the importance of my role in representing our school. While making sure I was the best leader I could be, communication and positivity had great importance when representing our school and who we are as a team. Fullerton College truly cares and understands its students. I feel fully-equipped and confident, I’ve been given all the resources necessary for my academic and personal career. All that’s next is to transfer. Wish me luck. Well, that’s all for me. Go Hornets and back to you, Alex.
– That is awesome, Leila. The STEM programs are structured to help students transfer to universities with strong STEM programs, including partnerships with California State University and University of California Systems. We all know you are gonna go really far, Leila. Thanks again for sharing your story.
Juan is here to tell us about his experience, not only as a first generation student, but how important it’s to feel like you belong on campus. Fullerton College has various initiatives and resources designed to foster a sense of belonging among its students. Juan, tell us more.
– Thanks for the intro, Alex. As the oldest in a first generation undocumented family, I took on leadership early, not only guiding my siblings to our family side hustle, but also leading in school. The business program at Fullerton College feels like a second home to me. Our professors are incredible, many are former CFOs, top managers and experts in the respected field. The instructors engage with us, connect with us on a personal level and generally want us to excel. It’s amazing to have such dedicated mentors who bring the real world experience into the classroom. Not only am I a full-time student, I’m also a student employee. I’m the marketing and events advocate for the Grads to Be Program. This vital initiative supports our undocumented students and students who come from mixed status families with a range of services including academic counseling, mental health resources, immigration, legal aid, and more. The staff, many of whom have shared similar experiences are deeply committed to creating that sense of belonging and family. We’re more than just a program, we’re a supportive community focused on your success. Fullerton College embodies the belief of making sure every student feels welcome and supported. The faculty and staff here really care about our success and they’ve taught me the value of proactive support and personal connection. As I plan to transfer to a four-year institution, my goal is to continue building my skills with a focus on bringing into investment banking, I’ll carry the lessons learned and the leadership experience I’ve gained here to carry me to my next challenge. That’s my story, back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Juan for sharing your incredible story. It sounds like Grads to Be is one of the most heartfelt and effective programs on campus dedicated to ensuring students have everything they need to succeed through the lens of social justice. We know you’ll be an excellent leader in life. Thank you again for sharing your story.
Everyone’s path to college looks a little different. Let’s meet Jas, a sophomore business major from Los Angeles, California. He spent years in the military before deciding to change his path and found Fullerton College. Jas, tell us about the academic resources that helped you during your time here in college. Take it away.
– Thank you for the introduction, Alex. I graduated high school in 2012, so I took my talent to the US Air Force where I would spend the next eight years of my life. Around 2023, I discovered the benefits a veteran can have by going to school. So I chose Fullerton College to be in my journey into business. The Veteran’s Resource Center at Fullerton has its own team of counselors dedicated to providing the best advice for veterans pursuing their degree. Additionally, depending on your major, they carefully plan out and give realistic routes on how to transfer to a four-year college or university. The Veterans Resource Center comes fully equipped with school supplies for their veterans, such as notebooks, pens, pencils, scantrons, as well as snacks, beverages, food and coffee, all free for veterans. I think one of the greatest perks that the Center provides is a place to stay if you’re a student with long gaps in between classes. You’ll have so many fun moments just hanging around, playing board games with fellow students waiting for the next class to start. Additionally, the comradery across campus is amazing. The Veterans Resource Center will guide you through all the educational benefits for veterans that are available to you. They also have in-house tutoring to help support your education and links to community resources for that extra help when you need it. If you’re a veteran who hasn’t decided to pursue school yet, this is your calling to apply to Fullerton College. I got outta the military working a truck driving job and I thought that was my life, but going back to school and attending Fullerton College was easily the best decision I’ve ever made since my military exit. That’s all I got for you guys. Alex, we’re coming back at ya.
– That’s incredible, Jas. The Veterans Resource Center clearly provides a warm and supportive environment to help student veterans transition smoothly from military service to academic life. With a wealth of resources like academic counseling, assistance with navigating veterans benefits, mental health services, and peer-to-peer support programs, Fullerton ensures veterans receive exceptional support throughout their educational journey. Thank you for sharing your experiences and most importantly, for your service. Thanks again, Jas.
Aislynn is here to tell us all about the Crime Lab at Fullerton College. The Crime Lab provides hands-on experience for students, especially those pursuing a crime scene investigation certificate. The lab offers training in forensic skills like extracting and analyzing DNA and fingerprints, utilizing alternative light sources and using chemical technology for evidence collection. Aislynn, give us the inside scoop. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. I’ve always been driven to help people and tackle significant challenges. My mom’s protective nature amplified by shows like “Criminal Minds”, fueled my interest in criminal justice, a term often referred to as the CSI effect. My passion for the crime scene investigation field was solidified during a high school introduction to criminal law, which inspired me to make a meaningful difference. I was admitted to the Administration of Justice program, which includes excellent resources, such as free textbooks, embedded counselors, field trips, and resume-building opportunities. In my first year, I especially enjoyed forming long-term friendships and working with a peer mentor, and I was thrilled to step into the one-of-a-kind Fullerton College Crime Lab, a mock apartment with a crime scene that gives students interest in forensics, valuable hands-on experience. Students can work through the crime scene with the crime scene investigation van to process the scene, collect evidence, and analyze forensics materials. With these unique opportunities, students at Fullerton College are gaining the expertise they need for an exciting career. I chose Fullerton College for its outstanding Administration of Justice or AJ program and the valuable support I received through the dual enrollment where I gained college credit while still in high school. I particularly enjoyed being part of the AJ program in pursuing Fullerton’s AJ certificates, which have contributed to both my major and degree credits. Fullerton College has allowed me to obtain three certificates for criminal justice, and I am working towards my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and minor in forensic studies at Cal State Long Beach. During my time here at Fullerton College, I’ve gained and learned a lot of skills from the staff, faculty, and the Crime Lab. While it’s time to get back to the scene of the crime, back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Aislynn. What a way to get hands-on experience. The Crime Lab is designed to prepare students like you for careers in forensic science, law enforcement, and related fields. That was awesome, Aislynn. Thanks again for sharing.
Kash is back on campus to share his incredible journey, since graduating from Fullerton College last May, now on track to pursue a degree in communications with an emphasis in pre-law at the University of Southern California, he’s here to tell us how his time at Fullerton helped shape his academic and personal path. Kash, please take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. Growing up in Chicago, I faced plenty of obstacles. As I stand here today, it looks like I persevere, right? Well, without Fullerton College, that wouldn’t have been possible. After high school, I attended a four-year university as a student athlete, but the football program was canceled without warning, so the search was on for a new opportunity, and that’s why I got a text from a football coach at Fullerton College. After just one visit, I knew this was the place for me. Fullerton College just wasn’t a stepping stone, it was a game-changer. Through challenges and stress, the college’s support system had my back. Our athletic trainer referred me to a campus therapist and the decision to prioritize my mental health helped me become not just a better athlete, but a better man. The athletic programs are elite, no doubt, but what stood out to me is how much they invest in each student. Programs like Umoja gave me a sense of community where I could be unapologetically myself. This program was created to support the success of Black and African American students offering monthly workshops, academic counseling, personal therapy, and much more. They truly help students reach their goals, whether it’s finishing a degree, getting a certificate, or transferring to university. They even helped me find my passion, leading me to switch my major to communications and discover resources like the Hornet for Journalism, media centers and podcast rooms free for students to use. I graduated distinguished student of the year, commencement speaker, accomplishment in the football and a member of Alpha Gamma Sigma. I earned five associate degrees and made the President’s honors list four times with 3.91 GPA. And none of that would’ve been possible without Fullerton College resources and support. But enough about me. Back to you, Alex.
– Go Hornets and go Kash. What an incredible journey you have had. Your accomplishments at Fullerton College are truly impressive, and you’re absolutely right, Fullerton’s focus on personal growth both academically and athletically is what sets it apart. Best of luck as you continue your career and thank you for sharing your very inspiring story. That was awesome.
Let’s meet Garrett, a sophomore majoring in sociology from Whittier, California. Like many students, Garrett wasn’t sure what path to pursue at first, but getting involved on campus helped him find his direction. Thanks to Fullerton’s wide range of clubs and resources, he’s now ready to take on the world. Over to you, Garrett.
– Thank you, Alex. In high school, I knew I wanted to attend college, but I wasn’t sure of where to go or what I wanted to pursue. Since graduating, I knew I was capable of going to a four-year university, but I wanted to take a different path that would allow me to be confident of my choice of major. I enrolled at Fullerton College, because of the cost and it was the best choice I could have made. I’ve been surrounded by friendly staff and students who put a strong emphasis on community in community college. After joining the sociology club on campus, I realized that this is the field for me and there are also many free resources students can access, including mental health services and tuition assistance, which I’ve utilized myself. I decided I wanted to give back to Fullerton for all it has done for me. Over the summer, I volunteered as an orientation leader to help fellow students transition from high school to college. I led campus tours, register students for courses, provided insight and more. It was a rewarding experience being able to help those whose position I was once in. Fullerton’s investment in student success is apparent all throughout campus. There are multiple groups, clubs and centers to help students navigate college from all different backgrounds and experiences. Its Hornets Resource Center serves as a one-stop hub for essential basic needs during the academic year, including supplemental food through the food bank and connecting students to community resources for financial and housing assistance. Without Fullerton College’s unwavering inclusiveness and belief in me, I do not see myself being able to achieve all I’ve done. The resources they provide were a catalyst to my success and it is something I will forever be grateful for. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Garrett. Fullerton College is without a doubt, a school that puts students first. Kudos to you for stepping up as an orientation leader. We’re certain you’ve made a big difference for students who are unsure of their path just as you once were. Thank you for sharing your journey, Garrett, and take care.
Let’s head over to meet Amanda from Santa Fe Springs, California. She’s a graduate of Fullerton College where she obtained her drone piloting license. Fullerton College offers a comprehensive array of academic programs with more than 120 associate degrees and 150 certificate programs. Amanda, tell us what’s going on in the sky. Take it away.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. I never imagined myself being a drone pilot, even when I first came to Fullerton College nearly 10 years ago. I knew that Fullerton was a great school since they did prepare me for transfer into a four-year university, but I had to rethink my career path and I found myself back at Fullerton College this time in the Drone Lab and the apprenticeship program. I’m a creative person by nature, and in the earlier part of my college journey, I was interested in video editing and creative writing. I had to balance work, school, and supporting myself. The more I had to work, I realized the longer it would take to obtain my degree and the prospects of job security or sustainable income after graduation wasn’t guaranteed. That’s why the Drone Lab and apprenticeship program piqued my interest. Vocational and apprenticeship programs are vital for bridging education and the workforce. In the Drone Lab, we get that hands-on experience with drone piloting, drone mapping, drone journalism, and even autonomous robotic systems. Importantly, we get to connect with industry professionals and apply classroom skills in real world settings. By learning under experienced mentors, we elevate our education and abilities preparing us for successful skilled careers, and most notably, Fullerton College is now home to the only bachelor’s degree program for drones on the west coast. I never could have imagined the opportunities that had come across, because of this program, and it’s exciting being a part of the small percentage of women in the industry, especially in such a supportive classroom environment that aims to uplift every student, and I’m especially excited to see what the future holds for drones. That’s all I have time for. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Amanda. It is so important to be able to connect with industry professionals in college and the Fullerton Drone Lab offers a variety of degrees and certificates focused on the drone industry. Amanda, we all know you are gonna go far in life and in the air. Take care.
Sami is a double major in Theater Arts and Business from Danville, Indiana. First-generation students like Sami are benefiting from the LIFT Program. LIFT students are paired with mentors who help them develop the kind of research and writing skills that are essential to becoming successful. These students also have access to fully-funded travel experiences. Give us all the details, Sami, take it away.
– Why, thank you, Alex. Hello, everybody. The reason Earlham was my top college choice was the school’s smaller size. Since the school was smaller, I thought that I’d become closer with the faculty and staff at Earlham, and I was right. My sister also goes here, which is a plus. Coming to Earlham, though, I was worried because I am a first-generation college student. I thought that I had to figure out this new world on my own, but thankfully, I was wrong. The LIFT Program at Earlham has helped students like me get a head start at college. They gave me advice on paper writing, gave me resources to work on schoolwork, and I was even lucky enough to go on the Hadrian’s Wall trip. I was able to go to the UK and experience a different culture other than my own. For free! This was a great experience for me because I didn’t think I would be able to travel outside the US for a long time. It made my first year Earlham really enjoyable. Earlham’s LIFT Program makes it their goal to support the education of first-generation college students, giving them resources and supplies to succeed in college, and the trips brings some fun to the college experience and gives new students an opportunity to learn about a world outside their own with peers they trust. With the advice and resources the LIFT Program gave me, even though I’m completing two majors in four years, I’ve been able to start my own club, to be in a band, and to build sets for theater because of what the LIFT Program gave me. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– What a story. Sami. We’re impressed by all of the resources and experiences that are available to first-generation students at Earlham. You are a wonderful ambassador for future students at Earlham who are the first in their families to go to college. Thanks again, Sami.
Let’s hear from Maro, a Sophomore Computer Science major from Nigeria. Earlham offers dozens of clubs, service, political, cultural, religious life, special interests, and even sports clubs. Students can even start their own. Joining a club is a great way to make friends, build better time management and leadership skills, all while earning a degree. Tell us more, Maro.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. When I left Nigeria for high school, the United World College in Costa Rica, a program I was drawn to because of its focus to leadership and service to others, which is also why I chose Earlham because it shares such focus. Although very excited, I was most definitely uncertain about my path, but I knew I had to find my people and created familial community wherever I went to. One of the pivotal moments in my journey was helping the founding of the African Student Association, or ASA at Earlham. Seeing the need for a community where African students could connect, share experiences, and celebrate our culture, I joined the efforts with others to establish the ASA. I fell more in love with Earlham because of its diverse student body and the opportunities it provides for students to create meaningful connections and make a difference on campus, such as the Student Advisory Council for Black Students Experience. This organization caters to the diversity of our students with multiple events. My participation in promoting and organizing events, such as the Hair Affair and Spa Days not only strengthens our community bond, but also highlights the beauty and diversity of our heritage on campus. During Hair Affairs, the Student Advisory Council for Black Student Experience hosts hairstylists who braid our hair for free, and during Spa Days, we get our nails done, massages, facials, and body products, all sponsored by our school. These events foster community, self-care, and cultural pride amongst participants. Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue building on these experiences and expanding our initiatives. I’ve learned that working together can create a supporting and enriching environment for everyone. The journey doesn’t end here. It’s just the beginning of a lifelong commitment to leadership and service to others. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks, Maro. We’re inspired by your leadership in establishing the African Student Association. You are creating a community and providing a source of comfort from many Earlham students who are far from their home. We know many other students have benefited from the work of you and your collaborators. Thanks, Maro.
Let’s meet Em, a Junior Environmental Sustainability major from St. Charles, Illinois. How do students like Em develop a sense of belonging? They might join a club or start a new one of their own. Many Earlham students live in campus houses. Student-athletes also compete in NCAA Division III sports or participate in dozens of club and recreational sports. Tell us more, Em.
– Hi, everyone. The most important things for me when choosing the right college was a sense of belonging in my community and reliable academic supports. Luckily, I was contacted by the Earlham Women’s Soccer coach, took a tour of campus, and everything fell into place. One of my biggest sources of community on campus has been my team. Transitioning to college was scary, but was made easier by having built-in family in the faculty and student body ready to support and accept me no matter what. Not only will my professors spend extra time helping me with my academics, but they will often attend my games, performances, or other school events I’m a part of, as they’re the biggest supporters of us students. I find belonging as a student athlete and convener of Queer House, one of our themed housing communities on campus. Although this is new to my housemates and me, we are all really excited to be a part of something so special. These houses hold community events, such as Music House with their Kathmandus or Open Mic Mights. We’ve all been brainstorming over the summer for our events and are looking forward to extending our welcome to campus. I feel really lucky to attend a school with so many people in spaces that accept me for who I am. With Queer House, the Pride Room, and the Trans Student Union, there are plenty of opportunities to find belonging at Earlham. Many of the courses for my major have had classes held outdoors, a perk of being an Environmental Sustainability major. I’m looking forward to continuing to strengthen my relationships with the outdoors, my interests, my peers, and my professors. Kicking it back to you, Alex.
– That is great, Em. Transitioning to college can be scary, but you’re definitely taking advantage of all that Earlham has to offer. As a convener of Queer House and a member of the Women’s Soccer Team, you are making the best of your time here. Thanks again for sharing your story, Em, that was awesome.