Why Am I Here? Student Reflections on Community College Education.

Introduction

Most of us who teach at the college level emphasize the importance of reflective pedagogy: a system of education in which the professor or instructor monitors and adjusts his/her own teaching style, and adapts to a changing demographic. Moreover, teachers spend a great deal of time considering their objectives or goals, along with their purpose for wanting to pursue a career in a highly competitive and sparsely rewarded profession. However, rarely do scholars discuss the importance of reflective learning, and the need for students to consider their reasons for pursuing a college degree. Perhaps such reflection seems rhetorical to many students: "I am here because I have to be here," or "I am here because the job I want requires a college degree." Students at the community college level have a variety of motivations for their pursuit of higher education. Some need to support large families; others must work full-time, and can only attend college classes at night. Most come from unique backgrounds, which demand a unique and strongly reflexive or adaptive environment. At the community college, both students and teachers face challenges that can only be met and overcome through a clear understanding of individual goals and abilities. Diverse students require diverse teaching methods and a commitment to the development and encouragement of intellectual growth.

In an attempt to understand my own students' views and perspectives on education, I assigned a brief essay to my English A class, entitled, "Why are you here?" I asked them to draw only on their past experiences as a means of answering this complex question which at first seems so simple, and then reveals itself to be quite perplexing for most. First, I wanted to find out why students chose to enroll at the community college, rather than a state or private university. Everyone was asked to consider the benefits and potential drawbacks of a community college education. Second, I asked them to indicate why they selected Multipurpose Community College(1) over other two-year colleges in the surrounding area. Finally, students needed to expand on their own personal circumstances, to offer the reader an accurate and detailed context within which to consider his/her responses. What I expected to find was a set of essays with similar and potentially superficial answers to the question. I also assumed that many students would be hesitant to share their personal anecdotes and dilemmas with me, their instructor. Students also realized that their responses would be published at some point, so I had even more reason to expect guarded answers. What I received, however, was a range of fascinating and often candid remarks, written by students from a variety of backgrounds, with a myriad of goals and responsibilities. Few of the papers indicated a lack of thoughtful consideration. Most students were very proud of their work, and eager to share it with readers who care to learn about community college students and their lives.

As an instructor, who was once a student at the community college where I now teach, I am all too aware of the stereotypes surrounding the two-year educational system. Many professors at the higher levels of academe are skeptical of our motives or abilities. While there are students at the community college who lack motivation to succeed, the majority of students have a deep commitment to their education. A large percentage of the students in this class, for example, were single parents, who were solely responsible for the care of an infant. Others in class had dreams of pursuing careers in prestigious fields such as cinema and television or business. However, they did not meet the minimum admissions requirements at large universities in Los Angeles, where these majors are available. Now that they have a "second chance" at success in life, many community college students are incredibly motivated to learn and grow as scholars and future professionals, under the guidance and care of faculty who are specially trained to meet their needs. The essays I have compiled within this article represent an interesting cross-section of abilities and interests, and work to undermine the conventional stereotypes surrounding the community college and its student body.

Self-Reflection and Writing

This assignment was given to students at the end of the semester, as a final paper to complete for the course. They were able to synthesize and showcase their progress in areas of descriptive and persuasive writing. The essays demonstrate a significant improvement in legibility and fluency, in part because students were excited about the topic and eager to communicate their views on higher education. As their instructor, I emphasized the importance of self-reflection and assessment, as keys to both emotional and academic development. By reflecting on the decisions they made and the career paths open to them, students were able to articulate a highly individualized view of the learning process facilitated by a staff of faculty and counselors who care for them and want to see them realize their full potential as students and human beings.

Without realizing it, my students reiterated the college's own mission statement, which includes the desire to encourage active learning and personal growth through a course of study that is both meaningful and accessible to students of different backgrounds. The essays themselves reflect interesting patterns of response: some students wanted to address the paper to others who might seek a community college education, as a kind of advertisement for the institution; others used the opportunity to create a personal invoice, which highlighted specific and transformational moments in their lives. Critical incidents, such as the loss of a family job, or the birth of an unplanned child, seemed to influence a few students' decision to attend Multipurpose Community College. The focus on faculty and staff assistance may be of interest to those who do not understand the need for administrational support at the two-year level. Students clearly benefit from close and unmitigated contact with administrative staff and faculty who know them personally, and can attend to their individual concerns. Finally, proximity and cost appear in a number of essays, as support for the notion that MCC serves its community and attracts students who live locally, which reinforces the purpose of a "community college" designed to meet the needs of its neighboring cities.

The Essays

Donald Hinesley, "Community College"

You are twenty-one years old, and you have no prior college association. In fact, you have no idea what you want to do. You wandered around and didn't go anywhere after high school. So, what do you do at this point: join the military, work at McDonald's, or play sports? Well, it's not too late to go to college. Community colleges are here to help and are there whenever you need them, with all the benefits that come with attending a college at a cheaper price. Community colleges offer you a second chance and can help prepare you for a four-year university, as well.

If you have decided that now is the time to start learning and you have figured out that you need an education to succeed in life, community college is waiting for you. With financial aid available and a variety of programs to help with the cost, anyone who doesn't go to college needs to think twice. Here is a chance to succeed, with no strings attached. The school system does help out with any and most financial obligations. Most community colleges average twelve to thirteen dollars per unit. Think of the reward in the long run. To find out what you need to do, or where you need to go, just ask one of the counselors. They will help you succeed.

Community college is also a stepping stone to a four-year institution. If you ask around, many people will tell you how attending a community college helped them get accustomed to life at a university. Some people need a little help getting started with college. Community colleges prepare you and teach you at the same time. You can transfer records of most courses to the four-year university of your choice, but it's best to check and see if the classes you want are transferable before you register. Teachers and counselors all want you to succeed; therefore, they will resolve all your unanswered questions. Community colleges go at a pace that you can keep up with. Some students who go directly to four-year universities have trouble keeping up with the pace, and that's why community colleges are at a starting point in the continuation of higher education.

From my point of view, the decision to attend community college was a simple one. I am twenty-one years old, and I want to succeed in life! Community college was there for me when I needed help. I wanted to improve my skills and my mind. To succeed in this world you need an education. Whether you have little money or you just weren't serious in high school, community colleges can help. I wanted more for myself. I wanted to feel smart, and I wanted people to listen to what I had to say, but in order for that to happen, I needed an education. I didn't feel the need to rush into a four-year college because I was one of those people who needed the personal attention that community colleges have to offer. Not to mention that my high school counselor recommended that I start at a community college to better prepare myself and work at a pace I could handle. I might have started a little late, but it's never too late to learn!

I am currently enrolled at Multipurpose community college. I signed up here because it's close to where I live. As I mentioned earlier, there is a college in every city. You just need the motivation and inner drive to want to learn. I plan on getting my Associates degree and transferring to a four-year college in two years. MCC looks to be a very promising place and it will be another chapter in my life. So tell all the students out there, and the ones soon to be, good luck!

Melissa Thorp, "The Less Expensive School"

Multipurpose Community College is the beginning of many peoples' college careers. It is the start to many lives. Multipurpose has many unique qualities, which differ from those of four-year colleges. I have chosen Multipurpose over a four-year college because it is less expensive, closer to where I live, and offers most of the same courses as many universities.

If you are a California resident attending Multipurpose Community College, then you only pay eleven dollars per unit. Each student takes an average of twelve units per semester, and that is a total of one hundred and thirty-two dollars. This price is much more practical for me and for my general education. Being a single mother, it is much less expensive to attend Multipurpose Community College rather than spending thirteen to twenty thousand dollars per year at a private college or university.

I was accepted to Bartlesville Wesleyan College in Oklahoma right out of high school on a partial soccer scholarship. I chose not to go, only because it was sixteen thousand dollars per year, and also because it was far from home, in Oklahoma. I feel that Multipurpose offers a nice transition into college from high school for local students. This is because it is close to home, and you get a little taste of college life. I believe this will get you ready to be a little farther from home and you will have more confidence in yourself to be without your family one day.

Most of the same classes are offered at both a four-year college and at Multipurpose. I have seen what both types of schools have to offer. Four-year schools have classes to finish your education. Multipurpose and four-year colleges both offer the basic general education classes: English, math, science and history. The same classes cost much less at Multipurpose, so why go anywhere else?

Multipurpose is a great start for people beginning their careers. For less money and inconvenience, people can experience how college is and if they cannot handle the responsibilities involved, they do not risk losing thousands of dollars. It is a nice transition into college from home, and it's nice to know you're getting the same quality of education, too.

Kinnea Vines, "Multipurpose: The College of Preparation"

Multipurpose is a college of excellence. I think many students will agree that Multipurpose is the epitome of both opportunity and preparation. This college provides education for those who did not meet the requirements of many universities and other arrogant colleges. This college does not discriminate against students with low grade point averages, or those who are not "brainy." The majority of the staff members at Multipurpose have the desire to educate their students. A college should not be judged by its title, but rather by how well the administrators prepare and encourage students to be the best at whatever they do. Although people on the outside looking in may disagree with my point, I know that Multipurpose is a college of acceptance and encouragement because I am a student on the inside observing my own educational environment.

Multipurpose gives students the opportunity to further their educations without any overbearing obstacles. The SAT, for example, can be an unrealistic or prejudicial test; having a 4.0 GPA is also a problem for various people. Multipurpose is a college where IQ and test scores are not an issue. It is how one uses the knowledge he/she possesses and builds a foundation on that knowledge. As a student at Multipurpose I have the chance to learn many things without feeling obligated by finances, such as tuition or scholarships, to further my education.

Preparation is also an important part of education. Multipurpose is a college that prepares students not only through books, but through experience as well. I would describe preparation as covering all aspects of one's educational, personal, and life-long goals. This college provides hands-on advantages to all students who attend classes on campus. Multipurpose is one of the most respected community colleges in the country; this college prepares students for a higher level of education, and universities throughout the country honor us as a result.

I have attended Multipurpose for one semester. In that short time, I have noticed the care and concern of the administrators here. Many of them have positive attitudes in helping students accomplish short and long-term goals. There is one instructor in particular who has motivated me to attend graduate school. Her name is Athena Perrakis. Athena is a positive role model for anyone who has the desire to reach the top. She believes in her students and her motivation encourages me to persevere until I receive my AS and BS degrees in Administration of Justice, and my MS in Psychology from California State University at Dominguez Hills.

Although many people may disagree with my thoughts and opinions, I know Multipurpose is a college of opportunity and preparation because I am a student here. I made a great decision when I chose to start my education at Multipurpose. I have learned things that other colleges might not have taught me. Multipurpose is one of a kind, and I am proud to be a student observing and informing people about the excellence of the community college system.

Raymond DeLosReyes, "A Student Tells All"

Fall semester of 1999 was my first time attending Multipurpose Community College. The whole experience was great. Having poor grades in high school eliminated me from going to the four-year university I originally wanted to attend, so Multipurpose was the best alternative for me. This college has an exceptional two-year transfer program, and the tuition fee is almost free when compared with that of a four-year university. Also, the general education courses are better, and the location is perfect.

Living in [location omitted], California, leaves me only a few miles away from Multipurpose Community College. With Multipurpose so close, I would not have to worry about being tardy to my morning classes. Moreover, if I were confronted with car trouble, I would have access to the city bus, which would drop me off right in front of Multipurpose. In the end, the location of Multipurpose not only benefits me but the many other students who attend, as well.

Although a four-year university, like UCLA or USC, would have more prestige than Multipurpose, that does not mean the general education courses are any better. Having to concentrate on major courses, the four-year professors would not give as much attention to general education courses. Whereas at Multipurpose, more than fifty percent of the enrolled students take general education courses, so the college hires professors specifically to teach these classes. Thus, students at Multipurpose have a slightly better experience in general education.

Having to pay thousands of dollars a year to attend a four-year university is one reason why students attend Multipurpose Community College. With tuition fees at a current rate of eleven dollars per unit, almost anyone has a fair chance to receive a superior education and transfer with an Associates degree.

Transferring with an Associates degree is what most students who attend Multipurpose plan to do. With an exceptional transfer rate, Multipurpose sends many students to top four-year universities. Hence, this is, out of all, the first and main reason why I chose to enroll at a community college, and Multipurpose in particular. I plan to transfer in two years, and I believe that Multipurpose will provide me with the tools necessary to succeed once I do so.

In addition to the four reasons why I chose to attend Multipurpose Community College, I believe the power too learn comes from a student's willingness to succeed, with help from the professor, teacher, or instructor. A student with a strong willingness to succeed could accomplish whatever he/she wants.

Lillie Randolph, "Why I'm Here at Multipurpose"

When life passes you by and you have nothing to show for yourself, the career of your choice seems to be one step away from you, if only a degree is present. I am at the community college because the career I strive for requires a college degree, and the fact that I am a minority doesn't easily qualify me for the position. For a company to hire me and pay me a competitive salary, I must meet the company needs first. I can accomplish this at Multipurpose.

First of all, growing up as a child, you always hear your parents and teacher saying "learn all you can" and get the knowledge of understanding so you can fulfill your goals in life. Then, a college education would be utilized to the fullest capability toward a career you desire. High school must be completed before attending college. Basic reading, math, English, and foreign language are important for adding wisdom to your life, and help you make better choices in the future.

A few years ago I decided to stop going to an institute school for technical learning, which made a big difference in my life, because I developed a calmer pace in college. The institute for learning taught me a lesson: not to return again. The learning materials were below standards for employment. Their system needed to be upgraded. The school promised to upgrade computers in a few months, but it never happened. My time and learning abilities were wasted on an institute that stunted my future growth.

Going to a community college like Multipurpose has taught me that quality education is out there. I also try to learn from my experiences and mistakes, to look forward and not dwell on the past. Most of my friends and family don't have a degree. Some of them think they are too old, or life has passed them by. I don't want to live with life passing me by, without accomplishing my goal of earning a college degree for my children and myself. Many people I know settle for a job that pays minimum wage or they work for a private contract company that pays a very low salary. Going to community college gives me the strength to move forward. My education will always be with me, and no one can take it away from me.

Oneyda Franco, "Why I'm at a Community College"

Many students come to the community college for different reasons. They all have their motives for being here. Some wanted to go to Multipurpose from the start; others did not have a choice. Still others may have heard of programs or clubs that they wanted to join or be part of. I decided to attend a community college, specifically Multipurpose, because I felt I was not ready for a four-year college and Multipurpose could help me understand basic English, math, history, and science. Another reason why I'm here that community college is affordable and very close by.

I came from a high school that didn't have dedicated teachers. There were a few who cared, but most of the faculty was lazy. The teachers I had didn't prepare me for college. I was lost for the first month at Multipurpose, trying to figure out what my teachers were talking about. After they took their time to teach us basic English and math techniques, I began to really understand their assignments. I didn't really know much when I started, so if I had gone to a four-year college, I probably would have failed all my classes. I think that if I continue at Multipurpose and I keep getting teachers who are really talented, I will soon be prepared for a four-year college.

I believe Multipurpose is also the most affordable college in my area. It only costs a few dollars per unit to take classes, and the books are cheaper here. It's a great deal, and that's partly why so many people enroll. You can receive fee waivers and financial aid so that Multipurpose is basically free. There are scholarships, grants, loans, and other services available that can help you pay for classes and books. Anyone can afford to come to Multipurpose.

There are many convenient ways to get to campus. One can take the bus, subway, car, bicycle, or even walk. I have done all five, and I live a few miles away. For two months I had to find different ways to get to Multipurpose until I finally got a car. I was lucky to get rides from my parents for the first few weeks. Then my friends gave me rides to campus. I then decided to take the bus, in order to arrive at my morning classes on time. There is no excuse for someone not to find the campus, or get here from any location.

For my first semester being at Multipurpose, I could say it was a learning experience. I learned a lot about the school, teachers, and students. I have learned about study techniques and methods for acceptance into four-year colleges. I have joined a teaching club, which will help me learn about teaching opportunities. I know I will be able to continue my education and not drop out because everything is very affordable. Getting to school is not a problem, especially now that I am motivated to stay.

May Pradel, "The Choice to Consider"

There are an abundance of factors that lead people to prefer certain institutions for the fulfillment of their educational needs. Many of these people choose for the wrong reasons, though. For example, many students believe that the college they attend is the only factor that will enhance their well being in the future. Thus, some decide the best place for them is a university since they believe it is the school that creates outstanding students, instead of vice versa. On the other hand, a growing number of individuals are beginning to realize the benefits community colleges have to offer. I am part of this growing trend, and am very glad to take advantage of the service a place like Multipurpose provides.

As an out-of-state student, I faced various complications. Since I came from Guam, an American territory, before I enrolled in a California school, I am considered a non-resident, and therefore have to pay out-of-state fees. The cost for me to acquire an education as a first year student is expensive--even at a community college. Still, the fees are lower at a community college than they would be at a four-year college, so I chose the community college path. Since my family and I are just beginning our new life here, our expenses are carefully budgeted. It is important that my education be apportioned so that it will not conflict with our monthly bills.

Location is also very important to me. Even though [name of another school] is in the vicinity of my house, I have no means to support my education there. The next closest campus to my house is Multipurpose Community College, located in [location omitted]. Since I live in [location omitted], I feel I made a wise decision to register at Multipurpose. Not only is it in a nice place, situated near the beach, but it is only a short drive away. The comfort of my home is never far away.

I really enjoyed my high school life. The classroom setting worked very well for me. Therefore, I wanted the experience of being in a small class atmosphere again. To me this is the best setting any student can learn in. Not only are there fewer pupils in the class, making the instructor devote a good amount of time for each one, but this also allows proper communication between the educator and the learner. In this case both the teacher and the student are both rewarded with an understanding of one another. This is an integral part of why I selected a community college to further my education, rather than a university. I feel that this is one decision I will be thankful for in the future.

Some people might not agree with what I have to say about community colleges, or why I chose Multipurpose, but I am very satisfied with what I have received from this institution of higher learning. I know that I have made a wise decision to attend a community college, and no one could ever convince me that I made a mistake. The advantages of attending the school I am currently at are like gifts to me. I am thankful for everything. My satisfaction should say a lot about the worth of a community college education.

Brooke Mauger, "Community College Adventure"

Have you ever wondered why people attend community college? Well, let me tell you my story. It all started about a year ago, when my dad was offered a job to come from Australia and live in the United States. One thing led to another, and here I am living in sunny California. I had to have something to do while I was here, so I chose to come to community college and earn an Associates degree in Office Administration. That way, I could prepare myself to get a job as a medical secretary when I return home in two years. Time is the main factor that influenced my choice of schools.

My dad works for a group of twelve international airlines. They formed an alliance called "The Star Alliance." Their aim is to make seamless travel available for passengers by working together, to save each other money. They purchase everything from aircraft and fuel to cans of Coke and plastic cups, on a global scale. My dad is the general manager of procurement (purchasing) for the alliance. In Australia, he worked for an airline called "Ansett." The Star Alliance wanted him to come and work for them and he agreed, but only for two years. Then he will go back home and work from Ansett when we leave California.

Since we are only here for two years, I thought that community college would work out really well. I chose a course of study that I could complete at Multipurpose in two years. This way, I can go home in two years as a college graduate. I will then be able to attend university if I want to. I was also able to apply and get into the college easily, unlike university here or in Australia. Because I moved from one country to another, I registered only two days before classes started. This would not have been possible at a university. Therefore, I am glad I decided to study at Multipurpose.

The course I chose was an Associate degree program in Business Administration. It is a course of study in which I learn about how to operate computer programs necessary for office use, how to type at a reasonable speed, how to write business letters, and interact with people in a work situation, such as co-workers and customers. This course is not the only one I need to complete to become a qualified medical secretary, but it is enough to become a general secretary and I can achieve this goal within the two years I am here. When I go home I will complete a course that qualifies me to become a medical secretary. Everything I do within the two years I am here will lead to that ultimate goal.

I also feel that Multipurpose offers a very practical course, which would be directly applicable to my long-term goals. University offered a more general, theoretical approach to the same subjects. Getting a job in Australia is not easy, as unemployment is high. I am studying very specific subjects, which are applicable to office work, so that I might become a much sought after job applicant and get the position I would really like.

Nafisa Shaikh, "Benefits of Attending the Community College"

I could have attended Cal State Long Beach, but I chose to attend Multipurpose Community College instead. In 1997, during my senior year at [name omitted] High School, I decided that the community college system was best suited to my goals. I made the final decision when I attended an orientation held by Multipurpose at my high school. I was very impressed with the orientation. From there, I found out that Multipurpose has a very high transfer rate. I want to transfer to UCLA eventually. To achieve my goal, I selected Multipurpose for personal, academic, and financial reasons.

Personal issues play a major role in my decision to attend Multipurpose Community College. First, the college is only ten minutes from my house. Therefore, I can either walk or drive to school. In fact, I can choose to take the bus and still make it to class on time. Secondly, my work is also close to campus. I don't have to worry about rushing or being late to work. I work about ten to fifteen hours per week. My college and work schedules blend together very well. Lastly, most of my friends from high school also attend Multipurpose. If I am ever bored, or in need of help, I can go to my friends, who are conveniently close by.

Academic issues are also one of the main reasons why I chose to attend Multipurpose. It has a very good academic environment. The college has many facilities and meets the students' needs. The library offers tutors and assistants to help students with questions. In addition, the professors are very helpful; the counselors give good advice, and help students make their class schedule for the semester. Multipurpose also has one of the best transfer rates in California. The reason for Multipurpose's success is that the class sizes are small, which allows the teachers to spend extra time with students. Multipurpose also has an honors program for students who wish to attend a university after they leave.

Finally, financial issues are one of the main reasons why I chose to attend Multipurpose Community College. In 1996, my dad was laid off from his job. Therefore, I chose to attend a community college because it is very inexpensive compared to a Cal State school. For example, the parking fee, class fee, and materials needed for classes are all very affordable at Multipurpose. Attending school here allows me to save money and spend it on other necessities. For example, I save gas money because the college is so close to my home.

When choosing a college one should consider their personal, academic, and financial needs. Multipurpose is a good college option for those who wish to transfer to a university. I am very happy with my decision to study at a community college. It has helped me prepare for the university I wish to attend. It has also helped me deal with personal issues in my life, such as how to take care of problems at my work place, what major I should consider, and most of all how to handle stress. I have about two years left at Multipurpose. My goal at this point in time is to graduate with good grades.

Mark Lam, "Knowledge is Power"

Knowledge is the most important thing I can achieve in this life. Learning and the pursuit of continued learning is something that no one can take away from me. Everything in this world can be taken from you except an education. My first choice in going to college was not multipurpose, or any other community college. I went to a foreign country during high school, to play basketball for my grandfather's alma mater and to be closer to my father. That didn't work out because my father didn't have time to spend with me. I made the basketball team, but my grandfather opposed to the thought of me being a player and a student at the same time; he figured I could not excel at both. So I came back here to pursue my dream of being a filmmaker. Since I thought I was going to finish college there, I did not take the SAT when I was in high school; returning here, then, left me no choice but to attend a community college because the requirements are lower. It wasn't a bad choice to make, since Multipurpose is a good school, and it is very close to home.

I have no choice but to finish college. Unlike some families, who are satisfied only to have one child graduate, my family expects everyone to have a college degree. My mother has a Masters degree in Psychology and most of my family members have advanced degrees. My family has been lucky to have the opportunity to attend colleges. I didn't want to be the "black sheep" and be the only one who didn't graduate from school. From the very beginning, I understood that I would need to finish college in order to be successful. I have always known I had a long way to go in my education. I am happy to begin my journey at a community college.

Multipurpose is one of the best junior colleges in the state of California. According to many teachers and administrators on campus, Multipurpose produces more successful transfer students, who go on to the major universities in California. I know I want to transfer to USC to pursue my film career; so choosing Multipurpose wasn't a difficult decision for me. I have a long way to go, but I will get there.

Coming to the community college was one of the easiest decisions I have ever made. Multipurpose will be the institution to improve my intellect. Everything so far has been going as planned, and hopefully my success will continue. Memories of my past educational experiences are the only thing I can take with me. In the end, I have done my best, and my memories of Multipurpose have only been positive so far. I have the self-content that I have made the most of my opportunities here.

Beth Ranney, "A Fork in the Road"

If you would ask me to describe myself to you, I would tell you that I am twenty years old, a student at a community college taking nineteen units, working thirty hours a week. I am a sister, daughter, granddaughter, friend, and single mom of a beautiful little boy. I have a lot on my plate, and a very hectic schedule, so for me Multipurpose is the best choice of school. I decided to work full-time for my first year out of high school, and then I found out I was pregnant. I knew immediately that I needed a college education to guarantee my child the kind of life he deserved, so at six months pregnant I enrolled in summer school. I had my son in early September of this year, and took a semester off. Then I came back for the spring term. I decided that I wanted to become an elementary school teacher during high school, but I had no idea where I would attend school. Multipurpose gave me the start I needed to get on my feet and make important career decisions. Also, being a single mom, I wanted to stay as close to my son as possible, so that I could be there for him in a moment's notice if he was sick or hurt. Therefore, I can say that community colleges in general are better for a lot of students who aren't ready for the challenges of a four-year university education.

I can honestly say that I didn't apply myself like I should have in high school. Coming out of high school I had a high "C" average: not high enough to get into any of the schools I wanted. I knew I would eventually take classes at a community college, and truthfully it has been the best experience I could have had. I am enrolled in small classes, which allow me to have better communication with my teachers, and for them to know my name. I am the kind of person who can get lost in a crowd, so a class size of forty to fifty students is sometimes even too large. The counselors have also given me lots of help in terms of what classes to take, and what financial aid programs might work best for me. My counselor actually sat down with me and showed me how to make an educational plan for all the courses I need to transfer. I look at the community college as a kind of test: if you can't make it here, you won't make it at the four-year university, either. But at the community college, the teachers, counselors, and support staff are there to help build your confidence and your potential for success. I know that I am going to succeed at a four-year university or any other school I decide to attend.

Multipurpose has given me confidence in myself that I didn't have before. I never thought that I was smart enough to go to college; now I know that I am capable of earning a college degree. I am able to handle all of my personal responsibilities and still do well in school. My teachers all know me by my first name, without looking at a roll sheet first; and if they see me in the hall, they say hello because they really do know who I am. That helps a great deal, because I know that if I have a question or problem, I can ask them and not feel embarrassed because the teacher does not recognize me from his/her class. My teachers this semester are what keep me coming back to school every day. I have been able to speak with them on a personal level. They give me the respect of listening to me so that I will, in turn, listen to them. I know that I will be able to come back to these teachers for help long after I leave Multipurpose.

However, the real reason I am at a community college is my little boy; he is the reason I push myself further each day. I know that when we are out in public together, or when I tell people that I have a one year-old son, they look at me with pity. They act like I am too young to be a mother, or that my life is over; many even assume that other people pay my way in life. The truth is that I work many hours each week so that I can support my son and myself. I make enough money to pay for daycare, his medical bills, and my own daily expenses. In order to provide an even better lifestyle for us, I need a college education. I know that people in my situation aren't supposed to make it in life. Single moms are represented on television as people who live at the poverty level. However, I plan to succeed in life so that my son can succeed in his one day. I study for my classes while he is taking a nap.

I am not the typical college student who works part-time, goes to school whenever he/she wants, starts out the semester with twelve units and ends up with three at the end of every semester. I have a very different life, full of responsibilities to others and myself. I know that one day I will look back and say that I chose the right direction for me. Community college has given me the necessary stepping stones of education, so that I can provide my son and myself with the kind of life we want and deserve.

Kristina Ramirez, "Expect the Unexpected"

Filled with anticipation, I realized that the exit from high school would soon mean an entry somewhere else. I learned throughout high school to accept fear as a part of life--especially the fear of change. I was now prepared for the college world. During graduation, conversations among graduates filled the room. There were tears of joy from those who were lucky enough to be attending the university they dreamed of, while others were content to graduate and enroll at the local community college. Overwhelmed by the prospect of moving away from home, meeting new friends, and establishing a new life, and all the exciting occurrences around me, I was suddenly confronted with a difficulty: my parents' financial status. I would not be able to attend the college of my choice, Mount St. Mary's, because my parents could not afford the tuition. When fall came around, I would be enrolled at the nearest community college.

After long hours of studying in high school, with honors and AP classes, I found it hard to accept that my education would be limited because I could not afford it. All that ran through my mind was payment methods for tuition; still, I could not find a solution. I didn't expect to be confronted with this situation, and now I was left to deal with it. Multipurpose Community College was the last place I thought I would be. Financial aid would cover some costs; however, my expenses would still demand struggle from my parents. For the first time ever, I would not be eager to start school in August. Who could have known I would have a different opinion once I started at Multipurpose?

Now that I am here at the community college my experience has been an unforgettable one. I have realized that it doesn't matter how popular the name of the school may be. Instead, your attitude toward education is what counts. From my instructors here, I have learned that the difference between "good" and "great" is just a little extra effort. My primary focus is taking the required courses to accomplish my goals. I study and stress out just like my friends who are attending the four-year colleges. I am exposed to the same academic environment, but I am lucky to be closer to home.

There are those who are lucky enough to experience their wishes, and there are those who must discover their unknown path, and then make it new. If I had started out at the private university I wanted to attend, in the end I would have seen the same results as anyone starting out at the community college. No one ever said life is fair, and I only made the situation more difficult by feeling aggravated. Occasionally, I still think about my whole distress, and I believe things happen to us for a reason.

Education is important for everyone, and opportunities should not be wasted. I am proud that I did not allow this financial hurdle to impact my attitude toward education. My mother always told me that from small beginnings come great things. There are two things I aim at in life: first, to get what I want; and second, to enjoy it, no matter how long or difficult the road may be. From this experience I have realized that the ladder to success is there, and it doesn't matter how you climb it, reaching the top is what matters.

Conclusion

When a teacher walks into his/her classroom on the first day of classes, he/she is faced with a group of individuals who bring with them a wide range of experiences, fears, desires, needs, and interests. The instructor's responsibility to educate his/her students is often subsumed by the need to address each person separately, and recognize each student's unique talents or weaknesses. Only by engaging students in a kind of academically-oriented dialogue, in which their own views are solicited and analyzed, can a teacher make the process of learning a truly meaningful exchange of ideas. My goal in this project was to learn from my own students, and reach them on a significant and personal level. When the time comes for them to leave Multipurpose and move forward in life, they will have a developed sense of their own purpose, and know that their instructor cared for them, not only as a group, but also as individual students who had an important message to share with others.

(*) The name of the college has been changed to protect the rights of the author and institution.

Athena I. Perrakis, University of Southern California and her Students

Athena Perrakis is a doctoral student in the Rossier School of Education of USC. She has taught and coordinated Writing 140 at the University of Southern California for four years, and teaches English part-time at a community college in southern California.