There are 116 accredited community colleges within the California Community College System, all of which are displayed in this photo. Photo Collage courtesy of senior Hudson Zurbach. 

  Students at San Luis Obispo High School have the opportunity to attend one of California’s three public higher education institutions, which serve around three million students, the largest system in the nation.

  The University of California system (UC) contains ten campuses and is research focused, while California State University (CSU) contains 23 campuses and is teaching focused. However, for students who aren’t ready to attend a four-year college, whether it’s for financial or personal reasons, have the opportunity to attend one of California’s 116 Community Colleges, which is the largest single college system in the nation. 

  “Community college can be a great choice for many students. Our local Cuesta offers The Cuesta Promise, which is two years of tuition (only) free for those that apply, so that is the best incentive. Cuesta is also a great choice for students that may not know their education path, so attending Cuesta allows them some more freedom of choice,” said school counselor Kerry Ingles. 

  Attending a California Community College (CCC) has a lot of benefits including little to no tuition via the California College Promise, or locally, The Cuesta Promise for San Luis Obispo County residents. Attending a CCC not only grants you guaranteed transfer pathways to a select amount of CSU’s and UC’s, but it also can help pave the way for career paths.

  “I chose to attend Cuesta because of the Cuesta Promise … I would like to either transfer to a four-year or just join the workforce,” said senior Noah Kragenbrink. 

  While many students choose Cuesta College, others have opted for other California Community Colleges to better suit their needs.

  “I chose it [Allan Hancock College] very recently. I wanted to attend a four-year university but I found a community college that fits me better than I feel a four-year university can … I plan to join a fire station afterwards,” said senior Gavin Mussallem.

  As required by California law, California public institutions prioritize California Community College students for admission over transfers from out-of-state or private universities, along with first-time freshmen.  

  “Furthermore, Cuesta (or any community college) allows students to perform well and transfer to a four year college. This transfer pattern is widely used, especially since high school grades will not be reviewed for this process,” said Ingles. 

  With strong transfer pathways, career and financial support, California Community Colleges continue to open doors for students across the state.