Lower Columbia College is a community college. Community colleges are home to a diverse student population, welcoming students who are studying at the college level for the first time, returning after years in the workforce, and/or taking classes for fun.
When international students begin studying at LCC, they are surprised to meet classmates at various stages of life, including but not limited to “traditional” college students, high school students, working parents, and even retired persons. We want to introduce you to some of your LCC classmates.
Grant, Direct Transfer Associate of Arts, San Bernardino, CA
Tell us about yourself!
For a period of time, I felt lost. I’ve traveled and lived in quite a few different places in search of not only meaning, but myself. In that time, I've found that the Pacific Northwest has become my home. After I receive my AA, I intend to transfer to Digipen Institute of Technology for a BS in Computer Science and Game Design.
Why did you decide to study at LCC?
Looking to pursue higher education, I decided to get my general education studies through LCC. There were a multitude of reasons for this. For me, it was convenient as I live close by. I also knew quite a few others that had attended LCC and had spoken well of it. With it being so affordable, it has been the best option for me before I transfer elsewhere for my Bachelor's.
What advice do you have for future LCC students?
Get to know the community at LCC. Involve yourself in clubs, events, and try new things. Though I'm leaving LCC soon, I am highly aware that it's a rarity to find a campus with staff as involved and invested in their students. I can say that beyond providing me with an education, LCC has given me the opportunity to make lifelong friends.
What do you do when not on campus?
Movies are a large passion of mine, and I’ve heavily involved myself in the film community of Portland, Oregon. I'm always trying to make it a point to watch new films, independent films, international films, and so much more. Beyond that, I have made it a point to see as much of the Pacific Northwest as I can.
How would you describe the learning environment at LCC?
As I have mentioned, LCC's faculty and staff are very invested. I've found professors that not only care about the material they're teaching, but are so very invested in the students they're teaching as well. In regards to myself, I've grown and discovered so much about myself through Public Speaking, Painting, and Creative Writing.
Paola, Early Childhood Education, Kalama, WA
Tell us about yourself!
I am 20 years old, Mexican, bilingual and studying to become a teacher. I love working with kids and this career is my passion. I have 6 siblings and am the oldest.
Why did you decide to study at LCC?
When choosing where I wanted to study I chose here because it was close to where I lived. I didn’t want to leave somewhere far away as I wanted to stay close to family and friends.
What advice do you have for future LCC students?
There are many fun activities and clubs that this college offers! Step out of your comfort zone, look around and connect with people in our community here at LCC. You’ll make wonderful friendships and special memories.
What do you do when not on campus?
When I’m not studying or in class, I will usually be working at the Early Learning Center or spending time with family and friends.
How would you describe the learning environment at LCC?
LCC has a great learning environment. There are many support systems and amazing instructors that help you along your educational journey!
Divaa, Political Science, Nairobi, Kenya
Tell us about yourself!
Hello my name is Divaa. I was born and raised in Kenya. I aspire to be a diplomat in the near future therefore my major is political science. I love using my voice for the greater good of our society and most importantly for those who are unable to speak out for themselves.
Why did you decide to study at LCC?
I moved here two years ago so I didn’t know much about this system in high school. While in high school I fell in love with speech and debate and knew whatever school I would go to had to have a great team for me to learn and grow in. So I asked chatgpt what community college had the best speech and debate team and it lead me to LCC.
What advice do you have for future LCC students?
Longview is scary and you might think you won’t find your people but trust me you will and you will be so glad you chose to be part of such a community. Also go to the school events. They are so fun and it’s a great way to make connections.
What do you do when not on campus?
When I’m not studying or in class, I will usually be working at the Early Learning Center or spending time with family and friends.
How would you describe the learning environment at LCC?
LCC has a great learning environment. There are many support systems and amazing instructors that help you along your educational journey!