Without a doubt, each time the month of November rolls around, students are naturally faced with academic chaos. Between finals and college application season, there is an endless list to check off before the year wraps up. Still, Glendale Community College students can share an appreciation for their journey here, before moving onto a university level. On December 12th, students ranging from different backgrounds discussed the application process itself and the benefits of a community college.

For many students, completing applications can be an extremely daunting task. Music major, Scarlet Lastrapes, touches on the impact of family background and how that translates to personal preparedness. “I am a first generation college student so it’s a little bit of new territory for me,” Lastrapes said. As the first of her family to go through higher education, Lastrapes admits to feeling unsupported of what laid ahead. This is a common case for many and without the proper assistance, progress within the applications can be delayed. 

Lastrapes also focuses on the importance of utilizing the resources around you, for both personal and academic success. For example, areas on campus such as the Health Center have helped her to receive vaccinations and psychology referrals. “They’ve covered so many medical expenses,” she said. 

In the event that students do find the proper resources, timing and availability are still major limitations. Jason Shamim, a sociology major who plans to transfer by Fall 2026, speaks on his experience with counselors. “I personally felt like by the time you had wisened up to use them, they were basically fully booked,” he said. Though students are strongly encouraged to book in advance, it takes time to pinpoint appropriate areas of support. It is clear that GCC counselors have a sea of students to assist. Still, this means that you are expected to come in with a narrow agenda that fits a half hour session. 

Chloe Wong, a second year history major, refers to her primary source of help, someone of high-demand at GCC. Kevin Mezza, Guided Pathways Counseling Coordinator and Transfer Counselor is known by many for his immense knowledge and effective guidance. “It’s really hard to get an appointment with him,” she said. “I was able to get all my questions answered.” 

Aside from the application process itself, the benefits of starting at a community college are often overlooked by many. On the surface, the biggest outcome is saving money, while getting your general education requirements done. To dig deeper, many students reflect back on their experience with teachers, along with the patience and care they have received. 

“Having smaller classes and getting to know your professors, you can ask more questions,” Pia Mouessati, psychology major, said. At a university where you have hundreds of students to a class, you do not receive the same student-focused teaching. There is a clear distinction between personal teaching at a small-scale school and a bigger institution that focuses on research.

Sofia Stoddard, a film major in her fourth year at GCC, looks to her nontraditional academic path. “You don’t have to do everything in a two year fashion, everybody’s different,” she said.

When the new year rolls around and decisions come out, GCC students look back on what they have gained here. Regardless of age, experience, or background, this campus serves to guide all through their academic path to success.