The first in her family to go to college, Taima was able to excel when she arrived to Cerritos College. Being the first is never easy. But at Cerritos, all of the resources for first generation students made the difference in Taima’s college journey. Let’s hear Taima’s story.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Education has always been at the top of my priority since I was young. When life and work slowed down due to COVID, after I graduated high school, I just knew I had to go to Cerritos College because of their amazing atmosphere, caring professors, and many options for online and flexible courses. As a first generation college student, I’m the first in my family to go to college. Cerritos made signing up for classes a breeze. I found tons of support from my counselors, professors, and peers on which classes I should take and how I could best achieve my goals. I also found tremendous support through the First Generation Falcons Club. The club regularly hosts seminars informing us of things first time students may need to know, like how to fill out financial aid forms, how to apply to universities, write personal statements, and even how to write resumes. We also have some of the most desirable universities come by to advise our students on how to best be accepted to their top ranking schools. Cerritos College also offers many opportunities for student involvement and leadership. The associated students of Cerritos College, or ASCC, works hard to serve all students on campus and puts a lot of thought and care into writing policies and planning initiatives that affect students the most. In the last year, I designed a system that allows ASCC to hear more student voices and concerns while making contact with student representatives more accessible to everyone. After my time at Cerritos College, I planned a transfer to a big name university, such as UCLA, well equipped with the knowledge I’ve gained from my involvement in student government and the First Gen Falcons Club. I hope you will consider Cerritos College if you’re looking for a university that really puts students first. Now, back over to you, Alex
– Taima, you started off new and a bit unsure about your path. But after joining student government and staying active on campus, you really found your place at Cerritos. Thank you so much for sharing your story.
As an international student, Janvi knew finding the right college would be the key to her success as a future nurse. At Cerritos, she found an award-winning nursing program and an accepting community that helped her thrive. Janvi, you are up.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. I was born in the Philippines and raised in India. I came to United States in 2019 as a junior in high school I always had a dream of getting my degree from one of the colleges in US and one day becoming a nurse. My older brother who also attends Cerritos College was my biggest inspiration in continuing my education. As an international student, It was very important for me to go to a college that was diverse, helped with academics, and provided scholarship opportunities. I received two scholarships which were really helpful to pay for a nutrition fee. I also currently work at the college as a student ambassador in school relations and receptionist at Student Success Center. Working, being a part of clubs on campus, and previously serving as a senator in a student government has helped me to gain a lot of confidence within myself and develop leadership skills. I always wanted to help my community and I’m glad that I go to a college that does the same. Through their Falcon’s Nest, they provide free resources like food, clothing, and housing to a student in need. I have used the services to get food and transportation, and one time received clothing after my clothes got ruined in the rain. Their efforts have inspired me to also volunteer at PIH Hospital where I visited patients and make sure supplies are stocked. As an aspiring nursing student, Cerritos College has done more than give me a knowledge about my major. They have given me a community, leadership skills, volunteer and professional experience. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks, Janvi. With all the good leadership and professional experience you gained at Cerritos, we know you’ll become an amazing nurse. It’s always important to have a strong community of support and resources when you’re looking for a great school, and you found that right here. Thanks again.
Say hello to Riley. He’s following in his dad’s footsteps to pursue a career in the civil engineering field. At Cerritos College, he’s actively involved in student government and wants to transfer to a four-year college in the next few years. Riley, you are up.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Hey, guys. My journey with the Cerritos College family started when I was a kid, touring around my dad’s work at the Orange County Sanitation District. There I was really able to see the opportunities of a technical career. After graduating high school, I decided on Cerritos to help me enter the civil engineering field. Not only are classes affordable at Cerritos, but they also offer a number of scholarship and job opportunities. I was awarded a scholarship through the college’s foundation which covered a large part of my schooling. I also work on campus in the research office. Here I’m able to develop analytical skills through a number of software programs which will be useful in my career down the road. This past semester, I participated in a number of STEM classes, including chemistry, physics, and calculus. Being on campus for work and school has allowed me to maximize my time to study and do homework. When I was a high school student, my teammates in track and field helped me be successful. Here at Cerritos, I have a new team to help me succeed. Being involved in student government has been a great way to make friends. I also attend group meetings where we shared stories that really allowed me to get to know my peers and professors. The community of support around me has been super impactful and made Cerritos College so memorable. I plan to transfer to a four-year university in the fall, so I can get my bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. While studying at Cerritos College, I focused on building a strong foundation, connecting with professors, and making friends. I’m confident these experiences will help me land a successful role in the engineering field. Well, back to you, Alex.
– Riley, it sounds like you have a great community of support on campus. We love to hear that you’re making good friends and making a positive impact at the college. Cheers, Riley.
Let’s hear from Brittany. Coming all the way from Mississippi to Cerritos, she decided to pursue her passion for helping kids and teaching. Brittany’s pursuing a degree in child development and wants to change the lives of children every day. Brittany, take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. In 2013, I graduated high school and went to another local college. I found myself in a wrong crowd. About a year and a half later, I dropped out. But when it was time for me to return, I discovered Cerritos. When I came here, I knew I wanted to follow my passion and study child development. Growing up, I’ve always been the babysitter, the fun cousin, and I volunteered to work with kids and daycares. Teaching children is something I always wanted to do. Throughout child development and teacher track programs, I’ve been able to attend conferences and learn different teaching methods. Both programs have made it possible for me to gain more professional insight and build relationships with others in my field. I have had great mentors and I’m happy to say I’ll soon be transferring to Cal State Fullerton. Being active on campus has also been a good way for me to stay engaged and meet new people. Throughout the year, I participated in Umoja Phi Theta Kappa and have used resources from Whole Fitness Falcon’s Nest, and Teacher TRAC. All of the programs I’ve been involved with have offered hopeful resources, like book vouchers housing assistance, food, and hygiene items. I’ve been able to get a free bus pass from the metro. Even off campus, Cerritos has changed my life. After coming back to college, I would’ve never thought I would be able to complete my courses and graduate with a 3.4 GPA. I’m a first generation student and I couldn’t have done it without my support system here at Cerritos. Special shout out to my counselor who’s been like my mom, Dr. Fisher. Thanks. Well, that’s enough for me, folks. Right back at you, Alex.
– Wow, Brittany. Those are great resources for students at Cerritos College. We can see how affordable housing and free transportation, food, and hygiene can definitely make the difference for first gen students like you. Thank you so much, Brittany, for sharing your story.
I’d like you to meet David. He’s a great example of someone who may have had a bit of a rough start, but was able to turn his life around at Cerritos College. He’s currently enrolled in the paralegal program with big dreams and big goals. Let’s hear David’s story.
– Thanks, habibi. Ola, familia. When I was younger, I was known as a troublemaker and a class clown, causing me to think that college life was impossible, but my stepdad, Eric, who also attended Cerritos College, shared with me his joyful stories of Falcon life with his friends and studying at the library. When I found out about other alumni like Juan Dominguez, this inspired me even more. Whatever your interests are, you can find a group of friends and mentors at Cerritos. The chess club allows me to laugh and have a good time. The Association of Latino Professionals for America introduced me to ways of thinking that I didn’t consider to help me grow into a respectable man. As a formerly troubled youth, I am very interested in a law career and am passionate about having the ability to help others navigate systems to get the help they need. While it once felt impossible, I am now on the path to transfer to my dream school of UC Berkeley to achieve my ultimate goal of becoming a senator of California. I’m living proof that the problems faced in the past don’t need to dictate your future. You could find the career path of your choice. The paralegal program is perfect for someone like me who wants to transfer and have more financial freedom, but also get practice in working in law under the direction of a licensed attorney. This also allows me to have free time to study and spend time with friends and family. As a student, it means a lot that my professors are personally invested in my success. Miss Moshi went above and beyond to help me stay encouraged to finish my first semester. Here at Cerritos College, any dream is possible. Back to you, habibi.
– That was great, David. You remind us that it doesn’t matter how you start, but it’s how you finish. No matter your background, Cerritos College has everything you need to be a successful student and ready for the workforce.
Okay, let’s meet Kat. She found her way to Cerritos College because it offered an excellent education and a safe place to thrive. Kat has a remarkable story of passion, grit, and determination. Kat, share your story with us.
– Thanks for that intro, Alex. What’s up, everyone? Growing up as an only child, I was pushed towards higher education. By senior year, I was accepted into five universities and one community college. Unfortunately, at the same time, my mother was diagnosed with cancer. I decided that going to a university was not something I was ready for. I decided that Cerritos College was the best choice to save me money and be there for my mom. I joined the Cerritos Complete Promise Program that offered me two years free of college tuition. It helped me transition from a high school student to a college student. The staff from the Promise Program came to my school and assisted with application, financial aid, counseling, and much more. Thanks to the Promise Program, I was able to get my three degrees and one certificate in just two years. I now have my AA in small business management, AA in business entrepreneurship, a certificate in real estate, and a degree in criminal justice. After graduating in 2020, I transferred to Cal State Fullerton and earned my bachelor’s in criminal justice at just the age of 20. I wanted to pursue other career paths, so now I’m back at Cerritos College exploring my other interests such as theater, film, and law. Returning to Cerritos College has let me explore other passions. I was a wrestler in high school and now I’m part of the first Cerritos College women’s wrestling team. We are the first ever CCCAA Women’s Wrestling State Champions. I also work for educational partnership and programs, which handles the Cerritos Complete Promise Program where I get to help students like myself just like when I was in high school. I would have never imagined this school’s journey, but Cerritos College has always welcomed me back. That’s my story. What’s yours gonna be? Go ahead and take it back, Alex.
– Kat, that’s amazing. You are a true champion. Earning three degrees in less than two years and being part of the first ever women’s wrestling state champions team is an incredible accomplishment. Cerritos has really benefited you in so many ways and now you can soar to the next level.
I’d like to introduce you to Emely. She’s a future marketing extraordinaire, and she’s at Cerritos studying marketing through their award-winning business program. Family is her first love, which is why going to Cerritos lets her stay close to home. Emely, please share your story with us.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. I’ve always been fascinated with billboard advertisements and knew I wanted a future career in marketing. When looking at colleges, Cerritos College offered the best of both worlds, a great business program that was close to home. Location was important to me so I could support my grandparents because they help me out with everything and I wanted to be there for them. Even with commuting, I’ve been able to connect with other students and advisors on campus. I’ve been able to connect with other like-minded people through many business-related clubs. As marketing director of the accounting club and the Association of Latino Professionals for America, I’ve been able to be creative and get social media and marketing experience to prepare for the workforce. And as senator of the ASCC, I’ve been able to help my local community and be involved in student life on campus, which has really given me a sense of belonging. There are many local resources available to Cerritos College students. Free medical services are offered, which give students the opportunities they need to take care of themselves so they can be confident in their health. As far as social opportunities go, events like the Falcon Involvement Fair has introduced me to many friends in my major. When I first started at Cerritos College, I couldn’t imagine myself thriving as much as I am right now. I’m grateful for the support of my professors and the opportunities for success that have been provided to me. I’ve obtained many skills and received a lot of feedback regarding my progress, which has made more confident in my abilities. I look forward to graduating with my degree in business administration and transferring to Cal State Northridge. That’s it for me. Back to you, Alex.
– We’ll keep an eye out for your billboards in the future, Emely. Sounds like you’re really going to leave your mark. We’re wishing you all the best of luck when you transfer to Cal State Northridge. You’re gonna do great. Thanks, Emely.
Okay, everyone, meet Kobe, a computer science major who loves trying new food and meeting new people. Kobe’s returning to school after traveling the world. Now that he’s back in school, he has the best resource anyone could ask for. He’s on campus with his mom. Kobe, tell us your story.
– Hey. Thanks, Alex. I am an aspiring computer science major here at Cerritos College. At 22 years old, this is my first full semester. After graduating high school, I felt unsure about what I wanted to do, so I stepped away from school and instead focused on gaining life experience. I spent some time working and traveling to other countries to work with kids, but there came a point when I felt I was ready for something bigger, and that’s when Cerritos College entered my life. When I first made the decision to return to the books, I was extremely fortunate to have my mother by my side. She works at Cerritos College and did not skip a beat to answer any questions I may have had. From enrollment to meeting my career path counselor or showing me where to find the best coffee on campus, I learned that there are so many resources and opportunities available to me. My counselors and professors have gone above and beyond to make sure that I feel like I’m right where I need to be. If I had any doubt about returning to school before, it removed them. One of my favorite resources on campus is the culinary arts program. I love having the opportunity to try new foods and meet new people in this social space. Another great resource is the Success Center. As a computer science major, having a quiet and safe place to study with tutors available has been super helpful. In my time at Cerritos, I’ve learned I can’t do it alone. There have been countless individuals who have played a role in guiding me, and I know I wouldn’t be here without them. My goal is to finish the remaining semesters as strong as possible with the intention of transferring to a university to finish my bachelor’s in computer science. Thanks so much, everyone. Let me toss this back to my friend Alex.
– Kobe, thanks for sharing your experience back on campus and for showing us how easy it is to be successful at Cerritos College with all the resources it has for students. Keep up the good work, Kobe.
Let’s meet James. James is an alum of Los Angeles City College. During his time at LACC, he was the President of the Associated Student Government. Also while at LACC, James interned for the mayor of LA and then transferred to USC. Welcome, James. We can’t wait to hear your story.
– Thanks, Alex. What’s up everybody? Before coming here, I googled colleges in Los Angeles and Los Angeles City College was the first school to pop up. Seeing they had alumni like Morgan Freeman, MC Hammer, and many others, I knew this was the school for me. Looking back as an alum, it was nice connecting with peers who share similar interests and passions as my own. Making friends was easy, but what was also a great experience was becoming a member of the Associated Student Government, also known as ASG. In my last year at LACC, I was elected president of the student government. This gave me the opportunity to help with organizing events, advocating for students’ needs, and I was even offered the opportunity to travel to Washington, DC, where I met the now Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris. LACC has many resources on campus, scholarships, tutors, internships and jobs are all accessible. I was provided an opportunity to intern for the mayor of Los Angeles at the time and I joined him on many occasions at his office, at events, even on campaign trails. The LACC community will make sure that you are aware that you matter here. With their support, I transferred to and graduated from the University of Southern California and I now work for one of the council members in Los Angeles. I’ll also be graduating from grad school next month with a master of arts in industrial organizational psychology. Thanks, LACC. That’s my story. Now, back to you, Alex.
– James, your journey is that of success. We all thank you for sharing your experiences while at LACC. It seems as though you gained a significant amount of leadership during your time here and we all are wishing you much success in your future.
Let’s hear from Jamichael. Jamichael is gonna tell us why you matter here at Los Angeles City College. Jamichael is a non-traditional student majoring in marketing, and he’s also an Umoja program participant. Jamichael, we can’t wait to hear more about how you’re involved at LACC.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey guys, I’m J and I am the BMOC, AKA the big man on campus. I know there are lots of colleges and universities out there for you guys to choose from, but let me tell you why you matter here. Here at LACC Los Angeles City College, we’re so proud to be Cubs due to the ongoing student support and campus culture. Whether you’re fresh outta high school, decades outta high school or somewhere in between, we have a space for you here. Personally, I consider myself a non-traditional student. I was returning after a years long break and pandemic brain, so I really wasn’t sure what to expect going back to school, especially as an older student. Once I arrived here, I was immediately surrounded with just the help I needed to win. One of my favorite things here on campus is you’ll find people from all walks of life being represented, which leaves very little room to ever feel out of place or left out. I chose to participate in the Umoja program and honestly, it was love at first sight. The program is designed to unite and empower students who may feel an educational disadvantage. We’ve got you covered. Here, you can team up with our amazing coordinators and gain access to a network of other students just like you. Not to brag or anything, but the Umoja program has the best perks, textbook assistance, transfer assistance, course planning, tutoring, snacks, special study halls, more snacks, as well as the occasional field trip. Need I say more? Field trips! To keep the spirits high here on campus, there are many events scattered throughout the semesters, movie nights, college fairs, career fairs, as well as just time to hang out and converse with each other. What are you waiting for? You matter here. Throwing it back to you, Alex.
– Thank you Jamichael for highlighting the vibrant campus life at LACC and showing us why LACC is the place to be. Everyone here is so happy to have you on campus and is glad you chose LACC as you transition back to school. All the best, my friend.