As a mother of three and a returning student, I came back to Yakima Valley College because I wanted to finish my education and get into the workforce. I chose community college because it feels more accessible and supportive than a university. This is only my second quarter here, but already I’ve seen how important it is for students like me to have both financial stability and clear guidance.
The cost of college is a constant challenge. Tuition itself can feel affordable at first, but once you factor in books, transportation, and other expenses, it quickly becomes overwhelming. Right now, I’m facing financial difficulties and have reached out for help, but the support I’ve found has been limited. What students need is clear, upfront information about how much each career path will really cost—and more resources to help us cover those costs.
That’s why I believe the first two years of community college should be free. It would allow students to focus fully on their studies, without carrying the stress of how they will pay for school on top of everything else. For returning students like me, and for parents balancing school and family, free college could be the difference between dropping out and finishing a degree.
I’ve also realized that many important supports—like benefit hubs and mental health services—exist but are not well publicized. I only learned about mental health counseling by chance, and I still don’t know who to contact. More outreach is needed so students know where to go for help. Work-study has been a lifeline for me, but undocumented students and students with disabilities deserve equal access to opportunities and resources.
If Washington lawmakers invest in free college and ensure student supports are visible and accessible, more people like me will not only enroll in community college—we will succeed, graduate, and build a stronger workforce for our state.