Teresa Alvarez has attended EC for three years. She is tranferring to UCLA this fall and her major is sociology.

Why did you attend EC?

My friend was coming here to apply, so I tagged along and decided to apply too; that was probably the best choice I’ve ever made.

How did you feel when you found out that you got accepted?

I found out last Wednesday. I was on campus, and tears literally came down my face because of all the excitement I felt. It also relieved my frustration because I have already heard from all the other universities; UCLA was the last one, and I got accepted.

What other schools did you apply to?

UC Irvine, UC Santa Barbara, UC San Diego and UCLA.

What were you looking for when you applied to those universities?

I pretty much wanted to get into the UC system.

Why did you choose UCLA?

Ever since high school, I’ve wanted go to there, mainly because of the name and its prestige. Also, it’s the closest one to home, and that is always a plus to not be so far away from my parents.

What do you expect to encounter at UCLA?

I expect to meet a lot of new people. I want to research things that deal with sociology, so I can be more aware of the problems around us. It’s going to be hard to leave home since this is the first time I will be on my own, but I honestly can’t wait; it’s going to be so much fun.

Are you prepared to leave EC?

Yes. I believe that it’s time for me to move on with my life; however, I will miss it very much.

What have you learned here?

Discipline, responsibility and focus. I feel like I’ve learned so much. The classes are challenging and I love that.

I remember my study habits at the beginning were poor, but now I feel very confident in the way I take things in and I have EC to thank for all of that. Also, being challenged in writing and math was the best thing EC has done for me.

Give an example of a situation that has showed you how much you’ve grown?

In English 1A, I failed the first paper that was assigned. It was a research paper. I was really sad and disappointed in myself, but I saved it and when I look at it now, the professor had every right to fail me.

Which skills will you take with you when you leave?

Everything. I’m going to need all of them, especially because I’m going to a university, it’s going to be a lot tougher.

Do you have any advice to give to fellow students?

To take advantage of everything offered here; from the Writing Center to the Math Center, they can all help you. Taking advantage of these Centers is one thing I am glad I did. Also visit your counselors and Cal State or UC representatives often; they will help you figure out what classes you need to take to transfer faster.