Two AA Degrees and No Debt

By Arin Haas

When students at my high school found out I wasn’t taking the SAT or ACT they asked me how I planned on getting into a University. I responded, “my community college doesn’t require the SAT or ACT”. The look of pity that washed over their faces when I said community college is not one I will forget. My time at El Camino Community College was vital in my ability to attend UC Berkeley. My time spent there offered me a chance to raise my GPA, figure out what I wanted to major in, save money, all while working part-time. 

I look back on my time at El Camino with fondness and appreciation. Despite being an under-funded community college, they offered resources to keep students on track to graduate, had diverse staff, great community outreach, and nice facilities. I had my trials and tribulations, but can say with confidence that they cared and prioritized their students' success. Smaller classrooms allowed for Professors to get to know their students individually and give great feedback that was imperative to our learning. In a time of great uncertainty with the pandemic, students were accommodated with flexible schedules and offered support. 

I was able to sit in a class with my peers who looked like me, shared similar stories, and aspirations for life. People think of community colleges as a place you go because you don’t care about an education or you couldn’t make the cut for University. These stereotypes couldn’t be more wrong. Some of the most driven people come from community colleges. I proudly say that I graduated from community college with two AA degrees and no debt. I know wholeheartedly that going to community college was the right choice for me and improved my application to Berkeley. It gave me more time to figure out who I am and what I want, so that when I cross the stage and get my diploma I will do it with complete certainty and excitement for what's next.