Winter Fest is a special event designed to give students a much-needed break from the stress of finals and provide a moment to relax and recharge. The event offers a festive atmosphere filled with holiday cheer, starting with delicious treats like freshly made tamales and an assortment of holiday goodies. To add to the cozy vibe, students could warm up with a cup of hot chocolate from the hot cocoa bar, complete with a variety of toppings to customize their drink.
Fullerton College hosted its second annual Winter Fest on Tuesday Dec. 3, 2024, at the campus quad, bringing together students, families, and community members for an evening filled with festive activities and fun. This year’s event was particularly special as it celebrated the launch of the college’s groundbreaking bachelor’s degree program in drone technology, the first and only program of its kind on the West Coast. Attendees enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment, student support programs, and opportunities to learn more about the innovative drone technology program.
“They gave me free tamales and I heard you could get free items, there was also good information that I was able to get from the booths,” said first year student Rodrigo Briones.
Beyond the refreshments, Winter Fest also features booths where students can connect with academic and student support programs, offering resources and guidance to help them succeed. The event provides a perfect balance of relaxation, community engagement, and support during a hectic time with the semester coming to an end.
“I think it was really cool walking out of class and seeing this, it helps get your mind off of things with finals here,” said first-year student Korina Castaneda.
Aside from the winter festivities, Fullerton College had another reason to celebrate: the Drone Technology program proudly announced the launch of its new and only bachelor’s degree program. This milestone marks a significant advancement for the college and provides a tremendous opportunity for students pursuing careers in drone technology.
The addition of the bachelor’s degree allows students to continue their education and achieve their academic and professional goals without the challenges and uncertainties of transferring to another institution. By offering this program, Fullerton College reinforces its commitment to supporting students in emerging, innovative fields and preparing them for success in the rapidly growing drone industry.
“Now knowing that I will be graduating with my associates and certificates, I now know that there is a bachelor program out there,” said second-year student Blake Castillo. “It’s exciting and I am looking forward to what it has to hold for future students.”
The evening concluded with a spectacular drone light show, a collaboration between the Fullerton Drone Lab and Grizzly Entertainment. The display illuminated the night sky with intricate formations showcasing a variety of robotic technologies. Among the highlights were stunning visual representations of the Fullerton Library and an aerial arrangement spelling out the name, “Fullerton Drone Lab.”