In the winter of 2023, I was preparing for college. My initial plan was to attend Fresno State, but at the last minute I chose Fresno City College instead. While most of my friends went to Fresno State, I decided on FCC.
Community colleges are often seen as “less than” four-year universities, and I used to agree. At first, I felt embarrassed telling friends about my change of plans.
Now, as I prepare to transfer, I’m grateful for the opportunities FCC has given me.
“I’m a first-generation student in my family, and I want to set a path for my siblings by graduating with my associate degree,” Gerardo Carillo, an electrical major at FCC said.
FCC provides affordable tuition and financial aid through scholarships.
“The cost compared to State is dramatically less,” Juan Benitez said, a construction major at FCC. “Everyone is in a different situation, but if you want to manage your finances, start at community college and move on to a CSU.”
Attending community college actually increases students’ chances of graduating college. According to the Public Policy Institute of California, 79% of community college students who transfer to a CSU are likely to graduate within four years. Meanwhile, only 42% of students who go from high school to a CSU graduate within four years.
That statistic paints a totally different picture from what is generally believed. Community college students find much more success than I thought.
This may be because community colleges tend to have less students. For example, I’ve heard plenty of horror stories from friends who attend Fresno State about how difficult it is to talk to a counselor on campus.
At FCC on the other hand, anytime I need to speak to a counselor I simply make an appointment.
The student experience at FCC feels very personalized. Teachers have helped me out countless times. Teachers and counselors feel available. There is a real sense of community.
I recently had to attend an Inter-Club Council meeting. The club is a place where all the different clubs at FCC gather to discuss future plans.
I was taken aback by how many events are held throughout the campus. FCC definitely has a club for everyone.
According to the California State University website, undergraduates pay about $6,450 a year. Community College Review reports the average cost at a California community college is $1,516.
Looking back, I’m glad I chose FCC. It gave me time to figure out my future and made higher education affordable. The stigma I felt going in has totally disappeared. Community college is entirely practical and worth it. It allows us to receive the same information our society is built on that CSU’s also teach, but it’s much cheaper here.
Students should not feel ashamed for attending community college. Community college isn’t just a stepping stone but an opportunity for growth.
