By STEVEN C. VOGEL
[email protected]
Rip staff writer
During the morning hours of Sept. 11, the grassy area between the library and student services became the home to nearly 50 four-year schools aiming to draw students and capitalize on their interests.
A wide array of schools throughout California were represented at Bakersfield College, including those within the UC and CSU systems, private Christian universities, and institutions offering non-traditional, career-focused training programs.
Admissions representatives from Cal State Bakersfield, San Jose State, Patten University, UC San Diego and UC Merced, Cornell University, Fresno State, and Loma Linda University were among those available to answer any questions or concerns students had regarding program information, ethnic diversity and social activities. Many of these schools are focusing their energies on students from ethnic backgrounds in an effort to further diversify and strengthen their campus communities.
“A walk across the campus is like a walk across the world. We offer one of the most diverse community of students of any of the CSUs,” said Jaclyn Johnson, admissions representative at San Francisco State University.
This event gave students an idea about what options are available following their time at BC, as the information was presented in a comfortable and organized manner.
“The setup [at transfer day] is comfortable and well organized, and I’m learning a lot about what’s around at these great schools. My school isn’t here. If Cal Poly were here, it would be a simple decision. But UC Davis is here, so it’s a close second,” said Lori Carter, environmental horticulture and child development major.
Among the plethora of career choices available, it’s evident that students are often unsure about their future plans, including which university is best for their major and interests. Students are hesitant to make choices based upon peer pressure and popularity.
“I’m just trying to find out what’s best for me and my major. I’ve been able to get more information on where I might like to go. I haven’t yet made any decisions, but today definitely helped clarify some insecurities and uncertainties I’ve had,” said Marie Edger, undeclared major.
From schools across the state, like Ottis College of the Arts in West Hollywood to local schools like Cal State Bakersfield, students seem confident that they will succeed at any four-year school they choose because of the personal attention they receive by their professors at BC.
“It’s been great, because here at BC, they [professors] really want you to succeed and will bend over backward to make sure it happens. I totally support BC and have loved being here,” said Anikia Jackson, a communications major who has also been a student at Ventura College.
For additional information on transfer requirements, articulation agreements, or to discuss any question, contact transfer counselor Barbara Braid at 395-4421, or visit their Web site at www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/transfer.