Let’s hear from Natalie, a graduate student in the University’s School of Business and Society, earning her MBA through the 4 + 1 pathway, here at Redlands. In just five short years, Natalie will have completed her four year undergraduate and MBA programs. As Natalie tells us more, we’ll learn what else she found at Redlands that has been missing for her. Natalie, you’re up.
– Thank you, Alex. Growing up as an athlete, I knew I wanted to compete at the next level, but obtaining a strong education was the most important thing to me when it came to deciding on where to go for college. I wanted to attend a highly respected university that would benefit my career post graduation. As a third generation legacy student, the University of Redlands was always on my list of possible colleges. However, softball took me elsewhere out of high school. After a year at a different university, I felt like something was missing from my college experience and decided to transfer. Seven other people in my family have attended Redlands, so I was very familiar with the amazing college experience they all had, the strong alumni base, and the relationships they have continued to have to this day. I knew this would be a great fit for me. I knew I wanted to pursue a degree in business. As an undergraduate student, my advisor led me to major in financial economics and minor in accounting, for a well-rounded degree. She also introduced me to the business 4 + 1 pathway. With the 4 + 1 pathway, undergraduate students are able to take classes that are considered prerequisites for graduate school, which allow you to complete your master’s within one year post-graduation. This accelerated program is designed for students to complete their bachelor’s degree and their master’s in only five years. Redlands made it easy to transition from an undergraduate degree to a graduate MBA degree. No matter what you choose to major in at the University of Redlands, you have endless opportunities. I am so happy I found my way to Redlands, following in the footsteps of my relatives. Go Bulldogs. Back to you, Alex.
– Natalie, thank you for your motivating story of grabbing opportunity and making the most of it, and reflecting on how the campus community was so important to your college experience. 4 + 1 pathway programs here at Redlands helps students finish degrees in less time and advance professionally. Thanks again.
Let’s meet Peirce, a sophomore in the Johnston Center for Integrative Studies. The Johnston Program offers students the opportunity to design their own degree, allowing Peirce to pursue many of his passions through a personalized education. It also offered the chance to impact his career and his community with this entrepreneurial spirit. Peirce, we can’t wait to hear more, please take it away.
– Thanks for the intro, Alex. Growing up, I had a bunch of different passions. One weekend I’d be up in the mountains, tearing up the slope, and the next, shredding my guitar in my home studio. All while doing all that, I still found time to launch rockets, run miles, and race cars in the desert with my friends. I’ve always been interested in so many things. When I came to the University of Redlands, I was initially captured by the campus’s aesthetics, and their music and business degree programs. But after I discovered the Johnson Center, I knew I wanted to do something unique that would combine my various interests. I wanted a personalized education that would gimme applicable skills, and not just theory. In Johnston, students are encouraged to participate in hands-on real world learning. Johnson allows you to take your education into your own hands. Within Johnson, every student creates their own academic major, or emphasis as we call it. My emphasis is entrepreneurship and marketing. I’ve received college credit for attending marketing conferences, making viral videos online, and even founding my own company, Sherpa Media, and acquiring clients. And Johnston isn’t just for people who wanna be an entrepreneur like me. I have friends making their own degree paths in anthropology, ethnic studies, and set design, just to name a few. Redlands is truly a place where you can explore anything that your heart desires. As for me, Redlands has empowered me to continue down the path of entrepreneurship, and intern at a major media company. There, I wanna discover the secrets behind the movers and shakers in the marketing industry. Hope you keep following your dreams. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Peirce, you are definitely transforming your dreams into realities at Redlands. The Johnston Program is an incredible opportunity for students to be the architect of their own education. Experiential learning at Redlands helps students prepare personally and professionally for their futures, which is awesome. Thanks again.
Say hello to Enrique, a junior in the engineering dual degree program who is studying computer science and coding. For him, Redlands has been a series of open doors to research with professors, innovate for the benefit of his peers, and turn dreams into realities. Enrique, tell us more.
– Thanks, Alex. When I came to college, I had no idea what I wanted to do. When I realized that computer science and coding was a path for me, my eyes were open to all of the wonderful opportunities that the University of Redlands has to offer. Redlands is committed to student empowerment. I had the opportunity to develop a new student orientation app. And when I approached our administration with my idea, they immediately connected me with the head of IT to get it started. Redlands empowers its students by embracing our ideas and giving us the means to put them into action. The administration actively seeks out student perspectives, and works collaboratively to turn our visions into realities. I’m enrolled in our engineering dual degree program. This program and partnership allows me to complete foundational STEM courses in engineering and receive a bachelor’s degree from Redlands before continuing to receive my second degree from either Columbia University, or Washington University in St. Louis, all in just five years, and I would never have had this opportunity if it weren’t for Redlands. The professors at Redlands take pride in working closely with their students, whether that’s helping them design their own summer research projects, or allowing their students to help them with their research. There is no limit to what the university will do to make sure each of its students has opportunities to practice their education. Coming to the University of Redlands was the perfect choice for me. Now I feel confident and ready to move forward with the rest of my studies, and the rest of my life. Now I’m throwing it back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Enrique. Research and field work with professors is encouraged here at Redlands. And it is so exciting to see you turn the opportunity into a project that could benefit students in the future. Redlands is committed to student-focused, personalized education through collaborative, small class sizes, and with faculty who care about each student’s success. Take care.
Let’s go to Calel, a junior majoring in International Relations with a minor in physical education from Bronx, New York. Calel is a deaf student athlete who is passionate about sports education, and helping people. Through the open doors of opportunity at Redlands, Calel has found his community, and how to make an impact at the university. Let’s meet Calel, and his interpreter, Justin, please take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hello everyone, my name is Calel Olicia-Aramboles. I grew up in a military family, and as long as I can remember, there were two things I was really passionate about, sports and education. As a deaf student athlete, I came to Redlands knowing I could do the work and create change. I was excited by the challenge. I knew it wouldn’t be easy moving from a high school for deaf students to Redlands, but I found a welcoming community, with great support from classmates, faculty, and people across campus. I grew up moving and traveling across the US and overseas. Because of this, I’m majoring in International Relations. At Redlands, there are many study abroad programs, internships and other opportunities for this major and many others. Last summer I participated in a student panel at the International Internship Conference in Indiana. The conference included CEOs, founders, and organizers who also have deaf relatives, colleagues, and friends. It was marvelous to hear from them. Knowing I can flourish at a national conference, in the classroom, and on the football field is really exciting, along with making memories. One of my favorite things is teaching ASL. Many bulldog teammates attended ASL classes and tutoring hours. This is meaningful to me because I’m able to communicate more with my teammates on and off the field. I believe I’m the first one to teach this class. I’m proud I am making an impact on student lives, just as they have impacted mine. Here at University of Redlands, I feel like so many doors have opened up for me. Professors really care and engage with me a lot to help me achieve my goals, and because of University of Redlands, I’m not only learning how to change the world. I’m building communication skills and lifelong relationships. I really do enjoy my work on campus and at the same time pursuing my dreams. Back to you, Alex.
– Calel, thank you for sharing your relentless pursuit of excellence. You are an example to future students that a Redlands education is accessible and achievable. Your contributions are part of why Redlands has an inclusive, welcoming community, and a beloved athletics program. Thanks again.
Let’s meet Jocelyn, a junior and first generation student from Desert Hot Springs, California. As many students do, Jocelyn, first fell in love with the beautiful Redlands campus, but it was the resources the university offers first generation students that convinced Jocelyn Redlands was a community where she belonged. Tell us more, Jocelyn.
– Thank you, Alex, for that warm introduction. Growing up, I had barriers set. Neither are my parents attended college, nor did they finish high school. I knew I wanted to go farther in my education than my parents had ever gone. I found a profound sense of passion towards my education, and I wanted to see how far I could take my commitment to learning. When it came to the college application process, I wasn’t sure what I was expecting, or looking for in a college. My parents couldn’t help me as much because, it was all new to them. When I first learned about the University of Redlands, I instantly fell in love with the campus. And most importantly, all the resources the school had to offer for first gen students. Now, as a current student, I appreciate all the support I have received. Because of the university size, we have such a strong tight community. Redlands really is a place where I belong. Redlands has a summer program called Summer Bridge. I came two weeks before school started with 40 other first gen students, and we got a feel of what college was like before everyone else had arrived. Once school began, we had the option of enrolling in Students Together Empowering Peers, or STEP. We were assigned a mentor to help navigate us through college. This STEP program was all ran by other first generation students. I continued to serve in STEP, and I eventually became a mentor myself. This had been a full circle moment for me. College can be hard, but with the right resources, support, and community that Redlands has been able to provide, I have been able to succeed. I am living proof that we first generation students can break any cycle when we put our hearts, and our minds to it. Let’s take it back to Alex.
– Jocelyn, thank you. It’s so great to hear of your success, and know that you are an inspiration for other first generation students who may be questioning if they can have success in college. Redlands is committed to supporting first generation students in the transition to college through programs and peer mentoring, and throughout their college career. It’s so important, thanks again.
Let’s meet Khouri, a first year student, double majoring in history and political science from the nearby coastal city of San Diego, California. Redlands is proud to be a connected, inclusive community, where students feel they belong and have endless opportunities to explore their interests through clubs, organizations, and school-wide events. Khouri, please take it away.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. I always knew that I wanted to go to college. I wanted to go to school closer to home, and take academically rigorous courses that would prepare me for Law school. When I found the University of Redlands, everything seemed to click. Coming to campus for the first time, I was amazed by everything the school had to offer. There were so many interesting classes and programs, I couldn’t decide what to join. But I was also really nervous that if I joined the wrong groups or joined too late, that I wouldn’t make any friends. I remember calling my dad in the first week and crying, because I thought the transition to college was too much and I didn’t know how to handle being so alone. And then out of nowhere, some random student came up to me, patted me on the shoulder, gave me a thumbs up and said, “You got this.” And that’s when I realized that at the University of Redlands, it’s almost impossible to be alone. There will always be someone there for you. After I got over my first week jitters, I hopped into any program that held my interest. I’ve joined Mock Trial, Hawaii Club, Young Life, and Content Creation. But the University of Redlands also has an eSports center, sororities and fraternities, collegiate and intramural sports teams, dozens of cultural groups and activities, and school-wide events that you the opportunity to find something that you love, and to find other people who love it too. No matter your interest, you can find community at the University of Redlands. The transition from high school to college was hard, but now I’m happy to say that I have friends, and even family at the University of Redlands. That’s all from me, back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Khouri for sharing about your first days at Redlands. Your story is an inspiration for future Redlands students who are curious about the transition from high school to college and encouragement for them to explore academic programs, and seek out the connected and inclusive communities where they belong. Thanks again.
To learn more about transfer opportunities, let’s meet Michael, a recent SC alum and current junior at UCLA. with the on-campus Transfer Success Center, students at SCC can feel fully prepared for successful admission and transition to four-year institutions. Michael, please tell us more about how SCC prepared you to transfer to one of the top colleges in the nation. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. When I graduated high school, I didn’t even know if I wanted to go to college. I needed space to grow and I thought the college would push me into decisions too quickly. Santiago Canyon College provided me with the time and flexibility to find my major, explore my philosophy, and prepare myself for a career. I learned not only about the intricacies of patriarchy for my classes, but also about life from my peers who could be 16 or 72, all with their own unique life stories. When the time came to transfer, SCC had given me all the tools, experiences, and connections to make my application impressive while instilling a foundation of hard work, initiative, and empathy in me that not only helped me get into UCLA, but has allowed me to thrive in my now much bigger pond. SCC is more than a stepping stone to a four-year college or even a career. It is the hub of opportunity to grow, learn, and connect with amazing people on a beautiful campus that cares about you. By the time you’re ready to transfer to a four-year university, you will be more than prepared. Santiago Canyon College taught me to live in the present, respect the past, and plan for the future. I can say with 100% confidence I would not be where I am today without SCC. If you embrace it, it can be the difference your life story as well. Well, Alex, it’s time to get to class, so back to you.
– Wow, Michael, you are on an incredible path for success. In the last five years, the University of California has admitted on average nearly eight of every 10 California community college students. That’s right. Most transfer students come to the UC system from a California community college. Sounds like SCC is a great place for transfer opportunities and support. Thanks for sharing, Michael. Santiago Canyon College is truly a special place.
Let’s hear from Sofia, a sophomore Psychology major who wanted to ensure that her daughters received a proper education before pursuing her own. This welcoming, engaging campus has inclusive student support services that make SCC a special place. As a proud Hispanic serving institution, SCC is committed to serving a diverse student population. Tell us all about it, Sofia, take it away.
– Hello Alex. I came to California when I was 16 years old from Mexico, got married in 1990, start learning English in 1997, and received my GED in 2001. My goal was to be a teacher’s assistant. In 2010, I became a single parent, worked seven days a week, and focused on my daughter’s education. After I graduate, I start at Santiago Canyon College. SCC is a mini paradise. I feel protected and at home. In any department I go to, I meet new family members and they’ve given me the necessary hope to keep growing as a professional woman. SCC offers tutoring in many subjects and is preparing my way to transfer to a four-year university. I even work on campus through the scholarship program. I’m learning valuable skills and gaining leadership experience. One place I get to serve as a leader is the TRiO program. I love working with them, meeting new scholars, and helping them achieve their goals. The high school program has helped me to refine my English grammar to achieve my as Associate degree at Santiago Canyon College. In these two semesters, I have grown in my critical thinking and grammar. I will keep working diligently to prepare for my next goal, transferring to a local university. I have learned that being firm, focused, and consistent are some of the most important keys to achieving any goal. Being at Santiago Canyon in college has taught me to refine my abilities to be an outstanding student, person, and one day, a psychologist. That’s my story. Take it away, Alex.
– Sofia, thank you for sharing your story about how SCC has empowered you to reach your goals. We are so glad you’ve been able to achieve so much with all the resources SCC has to offer. Your story is truly inspiring to your peers and to your family. Thanks again, Sofia.
Let’s catch up with Gabe, a current sophomore and the President of Associated Student Government. Here at SCC, students have the opportunity to become a leader in their community. Let’s hear more about how being part of student government has shaped Gabe’s academic journey. Take it away, Mr. President.
– Thanks Alex. I knew when I started to plan out my college career that I would be going to a community college before I transferred to a four-year. This being the case, I knew that I would be going to Santiago Canyon College to start off my journey. I joined the Associated Student Government my first year of college. Admittedly, when I first joined, I had no idea what they did. Only upon becoming more involved in ASG did I realize the role it plays in advocating for student needs and concerns. This has benefited my own academic journey as it has connected me with so many amazing people that have helped me develop both my academic and professional skills. Advocating for student concerns and communicating with staff and faculty have given me so much valuable insight to the college system and shown me the importance of communication and representation in collegial spaces. I’ve been able to apply these lessons and skills to my studies here at SCC, which I feel have both improved my performance and kept me motivated. Being a part of the ASG has given me such a sense of community that I feel is hard to replicate anywhere else. And I’ve gained a sense of community, not only in the ASG, but from the speech and debate team that we have here at SCC. We’ve won so many awards both throughout the state and the country, and I am lucky enough to be a part of it. Thanks to SCC’s affordability, I have been able to save money for a four-year while getting my Associate’s. My plans after SCC are to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. And from there, I’ll go to law school and pursue a career in the legal field, hopefully where I can be somewhere where I can help the less fortunate. But for now, it’s time to go back to our host. Take it away, Alex.
– That is amazing, Gabe. It sounds like you have big goals for the future. SCC is committed to developing capable and effective student leaders, which allows them to shine and make an impact in their community. Thank you Gabe for sharing your story of personal growth and academic development. Take care.
Let’s all welcome Olive, a sophomore preparing to transfer to a four-year university with the help of SCC’s Transfer Admission Guarantee programs. This program guarantees priority admission to University of California campuses, and we can’t wait to hear about how SCC helped prepare you for your next step. Take it away, Olive.
– Thanks Alex. As someone who graduated high school at 16 from Orange Lutheran, I was eager to explore different career paths, but wasn’t ready to move away from home. Luckily, I learned that I could take online classes at Santiago Canyon College, one of the top 10 community colleges in California. SCC is dedicated to making sure that you have the best experience in your academic journey as possible. I was able to take different courses and see which path was right for me. I realized I enjoyed Economics the most with its focus on business and finance. SCC’s online courses have allowed me to take my classes at my own pace. Like when I find one of my lessons especially interesting, I can take extra time to focus on that. Or if I’m struggling with some of the course load, I have the flexibility to redirect more of my time on that part of the course while still keeping up with my work. And I still have the option of going to office hours, scheduling meetings, and asking for additional help from my professors. All of these experiences are preparing my way to transfer to UCs and Cal States. In addition to SCC’s classes, there are fun things to do around campus. Right next door is Irvine Regional Park where you can rent bikes or paddleboats and enjoy the outdoors. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, hike up Peters Canyon for spectacular views of the city. I’ve maintained a rigorous schedule while still enjoying campus life as well as gaining new interests and exploring different career paths. SCC’s commitment to making sure that students have a wide variety of options for their academic goals has led me down the path of success. And I could not be more grateful. Back to you, Alex.
– Awesome job, Olive. SCC has developed different instructional methods available for students that include online, hybrid, and virtual hybrid. Thanks to this innovative technology, SCC has helped remove barriers that limit access to learning. Thank you Olive for sharing how that flexibility allowed you to succeed in your academic career. Take care.