“I am always a little happier here! Coming from Vietnam to Santa Rosa Junior College, I was excited to participate in fun events, join clubs, meet kind professors, and make the sweetest friends. I’m so grateful for the entire ISP team. Becky, Amanda, and Chris are incredibly supportive advisors and counselors who have helped me so much since day one. It truly feels like my second family here. The ISP Office Manager, Tina, has also been so supportive with things like health insurance and reminding me of important deadlines, allowing me to focus on my studies.”

-Krystal, Vietnam
Major: Pre-Allied Health
Transfer Outcome: Current SRJC student

“My life at SRJC has been incredibly fun and fulfilling. I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many warm and accommodating people, both students and staff, who have made my experience even more meaningful. What makes the experience even more special is being surrounded by students from different cultures and backgrounds, which has given me the opportunity to learn new perspectives and broaden my understanding of the world. Through the International Student Program and various campus activities, I’ve been able to feel more connected, engaged, and at home.”

-Maricel, The Philippines
Major: Pre-Allied Health
Transfer Outcome: Current SRJC student

“SRJC offers a welcoming college environment and a safe campus. As a student-athlete on the football team, I have felt supported and welcomed by my teammates, coaches, and the campus community. Santa Rosa has been a great place for me to focus on training, academics, and improving my English. Playing football has also helped me build strong relationships and feel more connected to college life.”

-Ryusei, Japan
Major: Kinesiology
Transfer Outcome: Current SRJC student

“SRJC is a great place to grow academically. Professors stay after class to explain things I didn’t understand, and classmates share tips or show me quiet corners in the library to study. These small gestures have made a big difference and reminded me that I am not alone as I navigate this new world by myself.”

-Pancy, Myanmar
Major: Biology
Transfer Outcome: University of California, Davis

“SRJC was the foundation of my academic journey. My professors, counselors, and support staff believed in me before I fully believed in myself. They took the time to support me academically, introduce me to campus resources, and help me understand my transfer options. Their encouragement gave me the confidence and preparation I needed to continue my education at UC Berkeley and, later, Harvard.”

-Kanto, Madagascar
Major: Social and Behavioral Sciences
Transfer Outcome: University of California, Berkeley; Harvard University, Master’s

“At SRJC, I have found opportunities to take initiative, build community, and grow as a leader. Founding the Japanese Association, a student club on campus, allowed me to organize cultural events, connect with other students, and create a welcoming space. My professors and the International Student Program have supported me since day one, and I gained the confidence and skills to prepare for transfer and pursue a future career in Educational Technology.”

-Ema, Japan
Major: Computer Science
Transfer Outcome: Current SRJC student

“The people I met through the International Student Program and International Club really helped me open up, make connections, and form my friend group. SRJC makes it easy to bond with people through activities, athletic events, and clubs. I also made strong connections with ISP Advisor Becky Alvarez and ISP Counselor Chris Grant. They both took the time to understand me as a person, which allowed them to provide me with excellent guidance.”

-Samantha, Mexico
Major: Psychology
Transfer Outcome: Sonoma State University

“The professors at SRJC are patient and supportive. As an English language learner, having supportive faculty has made a meaningful difference. My professors always take the time to answer my questions and encourage my growth, which makes me feel very welcome in my classrooms. SRJC has also given me many opportunities to grow outside of class. Founding the Japanese Association, a campus club, helped me become more involved in the college community while strengthening my leadership, confidence, and communication skills. These experiences have prepared me well for my next step as a future transfer student.”

-Misa, Japan
Major: Business Administration
Transfer Outcome: Current SRJC student