Transfer to UCLA
I was an international student from France and had only been in the U.S. for a year when I started SMC in the fall of 2011. At SMC, I built a community and a family away from home. I met some of my best friends there and enjoyed a perfect learning environment. In December 2014, I graduated with an AA in Liberal arts - social and behavioral science and transferred to UCLA.
As a former international student, SMC is where I perfected my English and familiarized myself with the American college system. SMC prepared me not only to be successful at UCLA but also in my career.
When I started at SMC, everything was there to help me achieve my goal to transfer to UCLA. I had amazing counselors and professors who sincerely cared about me and my success. Also, the academic rigor helped me transition easily from SMC to UCLA where I was able to obtain my BA with Latin honors.
A special thank you to Teresa Morris (retired IEC counselor), Chris Baccus, Sherri Bradford, and Lydia Casillas for having been the architects of my success. I wouldn't have been able to pull through if it wasn't for their unwavering support during my time at SMC.
When it gets hard, remember your "why" – the reason that led you to SMC – and surround yourself with positive folks.