Sup Teach?

One of the missions of the California Community College system is to help students reach their educational goals (i.e. transfer, career/vocational training, etc.).  Yesterday afternoon, a student who I’ve worked with over the last couple years stopped by my office to say, “hi” and express his appreciation for the help faculty and staff have provided him. 

“Al” is a student whose goal was to transfer.  Last spring he was admitted to the University of California, San Diego—one of the finest public institutions around. “Al” is a low-income, first generation (lifg) college student—as you may know, this is a population that’s growing rapidly in higher education.  He qualifies for financial aid and took part in a support program called EOPS (Extended Opportunity Programs and Services).  In addition “Al” was involved with clubs, student government, and worked as a student assistant for the transfer center.  Many say that education is the most rewarding field out there.  It’s hare to argue that when you have the pleasure of seeing students like “Al” grow in every aspect of their lives. At the same time, without taking away from his achievements, passion, and drive, “Al” isn’t some exception to the rule.  He’s one of millions of student support program success stories out there.  Unless you’re a complete moron (or Governor Schwarzenegger or both), you can’t deny that programs like these increase ones likelihood of success exponentially. 

“Al” may not know it, but it meant a lot to my colleagues and I when he came by to visit. Like with any situation in life, it’s always nice to be appreciated. During the visit, we laughed and shared memories and stories with each other. There were times where it took everything inside me to hold back my emotions and tears (after all, I am a professional, right? hahaha).   It’s hard not to get too personal when your career is in direct public service.  Having a few years under my belt in education has helped me come to terms with the fact that sometimes, you just can’t help it.