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.
We cannot wait for you to meet Mariana, a commuter student who is currently undecided in her major. SCC offers the opportunity for students to get involved, stay active, and propel through thousands of individual tasks tailored just for them to get what they are after. Tell us about finding your path at SCC, Mariana, take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. Hey everyone. Coming out of high school is a huge milestone, but an impending decision was on the horizon. Picking a school. With having an undecided major, I needed a school that would allow me to explore my options and provide all sorts of helpful resources. My high school had great college counselors that showed me the great qualities and the strong support system that Santiago Canyon College had. With being undecided, I would need all the help I could get. So when comparing schools in my area, SCC stood out to be the better and more affordable option. At SCC, there are a variety of classes that give students a taste of different fields of study. With these classes, I plan to attain my American Sign Language certificate and complete the Honors Program. ASL is something I’ve always wanted to learn, and SCC allows me to do this while earning credits. The classes here are very well organized and challenge you to go above and beyond. The diversity at SCC allows for all types of people to share their cultures and experiences. I have expanded my social circle through having met so many wonderful people. The Associated Student Government, which I hope to join, plans events that are very representational and informational. For example, in Dia De Los Muertos, ofrendas were displayed and completion of an activity earned you a traditional snack. It was a great way for unfamiliar students to learn and appreciate my culture. The shift from high school to college was sudden and scary, but SCC eased this tumultuous transition. It was the best decision that allows me to explore my options and helps get me through classes all while enjoying my college life. Back to you, Alex.
– Mariana, it is so great to hear that SCC made the transition from high school to college so smooth. From Associate’s degrees and certificate programs to honors classes, students at SCC have access to everything they need. Thank you for sharing how you fell in love with the programs here. Mariana, take care and thank you again.
It’s time to meet Melody, a sophomore Film and Television major who took some time away from school before coming to study at SCC. With countless on-campus resources and special programs to assist students academically, SCC students can feel at ease. Melody, tell us more about your non-traditional journey. Take it away.
– Thanks Alex. I decided to leave my corporate career and follow my dreams and enroll in college. I graduated from high school in 2001, so let me tell you, I was nervous, I was scared, and most of all, reluctant to go back to school after so many years. I knew how challenging it could be for me. Being a lot older than the normal student and having a daughter, well let’s face it, I was freaked out. I began my registration process, and by the time I knew it, I was officially a registered student at Santiago Canyon College. I remember my first day at my very first lecture. For some people my age, it can feel like a setback. But for me, while sitting in my English class as my eyes filled with tears, I knew this is where I was supposed to be. I was overwhelmed by the resources SCC offers, one being math. For me, math was not an easy subject, and I knew early on this would be my biggest hurdle. Thanks to the resources and tutoring at Santiago Canyon College, I’ve been able to face those tough subjects head on. As a student worker, I’ve been able to lead and grow at SCC. In the beginning, it was challenging being a lot older, but as I got to know the culture and community through working on campus, it made room for me to make friendships and give great feedback to students who are a lot younger than me. We have this saying on campus, “What happens here matters.” I have so many takeaways and have grown not only academically, but as a person. My journey doesn’t end here. I plan to transfer to Cal State Fullerton and can’t wait for what the future holds. Thank you so much for hearing my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Melody, what an inspiring journey you have had. SCC has so many initiatives in place to help students succeed such as the on-campus job placement program. I’m sure being able to work on campus while still taking classes is a rewarding experience. Keep chasing your dreams, Melody, and thanks again.
Next up is Justin, a US Army veteran, SCC alumni, and a current adjunct professor. We’ve heard Justin has had quite an adventure, and we can’t wait to hear how the Veterans Resource Center has helped you transition from military life to student life. The floor is all yours, Justin, take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. When I found myself in the midst of a career change, I knew I had to find a school that offered the right courses to help me excel. As a United States Army Veteran, it’s also important to me to find a school that had a great Veterans Resource Center, and Santiago County College was the clear choice. SCC is the first and only higher education institute in the country that offers an Associate’s degree in Code Enforcement and Compliance. They also have partnerships with the California Association of Code Enforcement Officers and offer the three required trainings to become a certified code enforcement officer in the state. There is also a certificate of achievement and certificate of proficiency in code enforcement students can earn as well. During the enrollment process, I was put into contact with the SCC Veterans Resource Center. The staff was amazing. They helped me navigate through the complexities of the VA process. They ensured that my veterans benefits were being used to their full extent. They even put me in contact with a local charitable organization who gave me a laptop at no cost. The SCC Veterans Resource Center truly made me feel at home here on campus, and they lived up to their motto of “What happened here matters.” They were more interactive and responsive than any other campus I’ve been to. Even after graduation, they continued to send me newsletters and updates for local events so I didn’t feel forgotten. SCC put me on a path for success in my career field. I ended up being recruited to become an adjunct professor right here at SCC to teach code enforcement to others. And not long after, I was offered a promotional opportunity as the Code Compliance Manager for the city of Cathedral City. Anything here at SCC is possible and that’s just my story. Class is here. Take it away, Alex. All right, class.
– Justin, we are so glad you found opportunity and support. Here at SCC, veterans and active duty members are provided access to their VA education benefits, which allows them to reach their educational goals. And SCC’s Veterans Resource Center is there every single step of the way. Thank you for your service, Justin, and thanks for sharing your story.
Let us introduce you to Daanya, a future doctor from Brea, California. SCC is known for its innovative STEM program that helps connect students with real world experience. And we can’t wait to hear about your first exciting year in the SCC STEM program. Dannya, please take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. When it came to choosing a college, I wanted a campus that fit my needs for academics as well as the social aspect and to be close to home. And because of the opportunities and resources for STEM students, Santiago Canyon College was the perfect fit. When it came to choosing my major, I chose Biology because I was inspired by a former teacher. She made that class so enjoyable and was my biggest supporter. Growing up, I never thought I’d wanna become a doctor. I was always scared of checkups. The first day I put on scrubs, I felt like I was looking at my future self. Santiago Canyon College’s STAR Center has become a crucial part of my schedule. It stands for Science Teaching and Resource Center and its SCC’s exciting, innovative, and new academic support center for sciences. Whether it’s anatomy, physics, chemistry, someone from the STAR Center is an expert at that subject and is always ready to help. SCC connects STEM students to learning opportunities outside of campus, whether it be research projects, jobs, or internships, and the STAR Center has even allowed me to meet peers in the same major. I even met one of my closest friends there. If we’re not at the STAR Center, we’re either at the Halal food truck or grabbing coffee from the bookstore. Thanks to Santiago Canyon College’s STEM programs, resources, and professors, I’ve gained so much on my pre-health journey. Once I finish my STEM track here, I hope to join a four-year university to complete my Bachelor’s degree. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– How inspiring, Daanya. Thanks to the counselors within the STEM program, students are able to obtain supplemental and instructional support to help guide them in their academic journey. It’s exciting to hear about all the resources you have used. Thanks again, Daanya.
Say hello to Karelly, a first-generation student majoring in Business Administration who’s taken full advantage of SCC’s Student Support Services’ TRiO program. TRiO provides holistic and comprehensive services to help students successfully reach their academic goals. We can’t wait to hear about all the support you received, Karelly, please take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. As a little girl, I knew I wanted to attend college because my mother inspired me to pursue an education and be financially independent. We struggled as a family, and I knew one way to be in a better position and end the perpetual cycle of poverty was to achieve a college education. Santiago Canyon College has propelled me into the best version of myself. I have learned to step out of my comfort zone and evolve into the leader I dreamt of as a child. As a first-generation Latina, there are programs like EOPS and TRiO that are set to assist and provide resources to students like me to ensure that we graduate. During Covid, I dropped out of college twice, but I returned because of the staff at TRiO. I love the warm community feeling that this campus offers and the support our professors and staff provide to us. I appreciate that the administration hears our voices and concerns so this school can become number one in the nation. I’m grateful that the staff and faculty find ways for students to network and find internships, especially first-generation college students who are new to this journey. It is proven because I became Vice President of the student government, shadowed a private wealth advisor, and was on the Orange County Register within one year. What comes next for me in my journey is pursuing my Bachelor’s in Finance. I plan on going to New York to study and eventually pursue a career in the financial capital of the world. I also plan on giving back to my community by working with low-income students and possibly go into education part-time. SCC has helped blossom these ideas, and I know my dreams will be manifested as I continue working hard. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Karelly. It sounds like hard work is your middle name. The TRiO program works to increase college retention, graduation rates, and help students make the transition from one level of higher education to the next. Karelly, thank you for sharing your journey of success and good luck at the next level.
Okay, everyone, let’s meet Daniel, born and raised right here in Orange County, California. Daniel has had the opportunity to live out his college dream thanks to SCC’s Guardian Scholars Program, which is committed to supporting college-bound students exiting the foster care system. Tell us more, Daniel, please take it away.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. I’ll take it from here. I always knew college was for me. In high school, I focused on what universities like to see, AP classes, clubs, and volunteering. Despite doing everything right, I didn’t get any university I wanted most. Because it shifted my path, I decided on Santiago Canyon College, and now I realize it should have been my top choice all along. I knew a bit about SCC coming in because they’ve been at my high school promoting their resources and support services. One of those resources was the Guardian Scholars. It’s a program dedicated to helping current and former foster youth such as myself to succeed in higher education. They offer scholarships, textbooks, laptops, gas money, and so much more. They truly care about us. Another program that has helped me excel is TRiO, which serves first-generation and low-income students. I an all expense paid trip to tour universities in the Bay Area. Because of them, I’ll be applying to some of the universities I toured on the trip. But SCC has more than just amazing resources. Our student community’s alive and vibrant. As a senator for Associated Student Government, I work with my peers to make this college a home. Our mission is to represent students, improve our campus, and foster community by hosting events and celebrations. Thanks to ASG, I’m gaining leadership skills that go beyond what can learn in the classroom. I thought I’d be missing out on having a traditional college experience. But SCC makes it hard to imagine going anywhere else. The education I’m receiving as an economics major makes me hopeful for my future as a professor, and who knows, maybe I’ll have the privilege of teaching here someday. All right, Alex, passing it back to you.
– Daniel, what an amazing story. Thank you so much for sharing. The Guardian Scholars Program is designed to provide this special population with a well-rounded college experience both inside and outside of the classroom. It’s great to see how you’ve embraced all the program’s benefits. Thanks again, Daniel.
To learn more about entrepreneurship, let’s meet Arianna, a Health Services Administration Major who runs her own business. Bowie State designs classes to help students develop an entrepreneurial mindset with innovative problem solving skills. They learn to apply a creative approach to different obstacles, regardless of their major. Arianna, we’d love to hear how you’re putting your education into practice. You’re up.
– Thanks, Desi, but for my freshman year, my father passed away and it rocked my world. Losing a parent was one of the hardest things I’ve ever been through, and I almost didn’t go to college. But when I got here to Bowie State University, I was encouraged to use my resources here to tell our story. Being in the kitchen with my dad is one of my favorite memories, so I created a baked goods company, which gives me the opportunity to keep his name alive. Starting a business has been the most exciting thing I’ve ever done. Entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurial mindset are woven into the BSU’s core values, missions and academics. Entrepreneurship Innovation Center on campus helps students go from ideation to creation with resources such as mentors, pitch competitions, and areas for students to work and sell their products. There are so many spaces for students to explore concepts, collaborate on projects, and make their dreams a reality. Access to creative equipment like the 3D printer, heat press, and sewing machine is available for students to build their business prototypes. Being inside this creative space gave me the push I need to dive into the world of entrepreneurship. As a health services administration major, entrepreneurship is sewn into the fabric of my academic journey. Innovation is important in everything you do. Taking core classes such as macroeconomics and business administration has been very practical for me as a business owner. Entrepreneurship doesn’t have a certain look or feel to it. I never thought I’d become an entrepreneur, but here I am. I still plan to attend med school, but I also wanna take my business to the next level and open up a bakery to continue to tell my father and I’s story, one cupcake at a time. Back to you, Desi.
– Arianna, your story is truly inspiring. We’re so glad you were able to overcome such a hard time and emerge more determined than before. Bowie State’s education cultivates entrepreneurial thinking and prepares students across various majors for success as critical thinkers. I can’t wait to try some of those cupcakes Arianna, take care.
I can’t wait for you to meet Dayana, a Sophomore Computer Science Major who understands the value of attending a university recognized by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security as a Center for Academic Excellence and Cyber Defense Education. Let’s see how she’s taking advantage of the opportunities offered at BSU. Dayana, take it away.
– Thank you, Desi. Hi everyone. Choosing my major during the college application process was challenging. However, I ultimately decided on Computer Science. I started looking for universities that had strong student support and academic rigor. Bowie State University met all my criteria. As a freshman, I was anxious about my classes, but my determination to excel in computer science pushed me forward. Bowie State offers valuable resources for student success, including dedicated tutors and group support sessions. The commitment to hands-on research opportunities is one of Bowie State standout features. During freshman year, I had the privilege to participate in two page research projects facilitated by the University. One focused on analyzing problem classifications based on computational complexity, bridging the gap between theory and practice. The other was a research opportunity driven by the NSA, the National Security Agency. To support our career journeys, numerous clubs like the Bulldog Coders and Women in Computer Science host workshops to help with the interview process and overall job readiness. Notably, the BSU Women in Computer Science receive a fully paid trip to the Grace Hopper celebration, one of the largest women in technology conventions in the nation, which provides opportunities for networking and learning from other women in the field. The Computer Science Department at Bowie State emphasizes the importance of internships and providing resources for students to explore career opportunities. The University understands the importance of a strong academic foundation and hands-on experiences to prepare students for successful careers in their chosen fields. My journey at Bowie State University has been an incredible preparation for a future in computer science. I gained valuable knowledge and the creative freedom to express my passion through the guidance of professors, research, and a supportive academic community. That’s all for me, back to you Desi.
– That’s a fantastic Dayana. It’s clear that being a Bowie State student provides you with real world computer science experience. With all that industry specific knowledge, you’ll be prepared to enter the fast growing cybersecurity field as soon as you graduate. Best of luck, Dayana.