I’m a student at South Puget Sound Community College, and I’ve been working as a security guard at a warehouse in Lacey for about two and a half years. I live with my best friend and his girlfriend, and when I’m not at work or school, I spend a lot of time reading or thinkingContinue reading “Student Story: Adriel McCarty”
Author Archives: ourcolleges_admin
Student Story: Vincent Taylor
I’m a ninth grader at Everett High, and music is my anchor. I’ve played cello for about four years; it’s where I can breathe, connect, and feel useful. I grew up in Washington—Seattle, then Lynnwood, now Everett—and I like being involved at school and learning new things. After graduation I want to study education andContinue reading “Student Story: Vincent Taylor”
Student Story: Mariah Konchan
At Tacoma Community College, I am pursuing my associate’s degree in accounting with the goal of becoming a bookkeeper or working in the parole system. I am proud to be continuing my education, but the reality is that the cost of living while in college makes it very difficult to succeed. Even with full FAFSAContinue reading “Student Story: Mariah Konchan”
Student Story: Rosalina Cuevas
As a first-generation student at Yakima Valley College, I chose community college because it was the most affordable option for me and close enough to home to commute. My goal is to graduate with a degree in business administration and technology, and eventually pursue a career in investment banking or as an executive assistant. EvenContinue reading “Student Story: Rosalina Cuevas”
Student Story: Aika Yanagimoto
At Bothell High School, I co-founded a Communities for Our Colleges chapter with my classmate Sanika. As I enter my senior year, I’m taking college-level classes through the College in the High School program, which allows me to earn credits and save money. But I know that once I graduate, the real challenge begins. MyContinue reading “Student Story: Aika Yanagimoto”
How Rural Small Businesses Are Rallying Behind Free College
Across rural Washington, small business owners are speaking up about an issue that is often framed as a student concern—but is just as much an economic one. The video “Rural Small Businesses Rallying Behind Free College” highlights a growing recognition among local entrepreneurs: tuition-free community and technical college is not a luxury, but a necessaryContinue reading “How Rural Small Businesses Are Rallying Behind Free College”
Strengthening Statewide Power: C4C Builds Community and Student Leadership in Spokane
As part of our commitment to building a truly statewide movement for educational justice, Communities for Our Colleges (C4C) continues to organize actively in Spokane and across Eastern Washington. During the first week of December, we deepened ongoing relationships, expanded our base, and supported the leadership of students and families throughout the region. Our workContinue reading “Strengthening Statewide Power: C4C Builds Community and Student Leadership in Spokane”
Leading from the Ground Up: How Students Are Transforming Washington’s Colleges
Across Washington State, students are stepping up to lead—not just in their classrooms, but in shaping the policies that define higher education. “Leading from the Ground Up” follows student leaders in the Communities for Our Colleges (C4C) movement as they organize, advocate, and inspire change across campuses. From rallying for equitable funding and free collegeContinue reading “Leading from the Ground Up: How Students Are Transforming Washington’s Colleges”
Student Story: Leidy Rodriguez
My name is Leidy Rodriguez, I am currently studying for my GED and I want to continue my studies to have personal improvement and have a better job.
Student Story: Brandon Servin
My name is Brandon Servin. I am a YVC student taking English classes. I am very proud to be a community college student. I would like to study drone piloting in the future, but I face financial barriers.