The Promise Program at Fullerton College held its annual Fullerton College Night on April 15 for students who commit to FC. At the event, the school showcased programs, clubs, and resources, and provided information on what being a student is like at FC.
The Promise Program offers two years of free tuition for eligible first-time college students, covering enrollment and health fees through the North Orange County Promise Fee Waiver. To qualify, students must be enrolled in 12 units for fall and spring semesters at FC. If a student is a Disability Support Services recipient, they may be able to enroll in fewer units, determined by a DSS counselor.
New students must check off all requirements from the new student checklist. Students can also schedule a counselor appointment to discuss eligibility requirements, locate resources, and answer any questions.
Promise mentors cannot create Education Plans.
Programs and departments that were out helping future Hornets included Guided Pathways, Health Services, FC Library, Financial Aid, Theater, Dance, Journalism, and many more, with coordinators discussing their classes for the upcoming fall semester, which begins on August 24.
This year, coordinators of the event added informative sessions, where different student support services presented their programs.
Clubs were also included in this year’s FC Night. According to coordinators, clubs weren’t involved in FC Night in previous years because of finals week, which limited the students from participating in the event.
FC Night is meant to welcome students and their loved ones by being surrounded by a welcoming community and a safe environment. Oftentimes, students can get embarrassed that they’re attending a community college, but FC provides support.
“We want students to know that Fullerton College, a community college, is not a backup. It’s okay for it to be your first choice or to be excited to attend a community college,” said FC Night Co-Coordinator Annika Shellenbarger.
Various students from different high schools were awarded a New Student Scholarship presented by FC President Cynthia Olivo. There were also a couple of student performances to show what the school has to offer.
FC Night has been an event since 2018 and started by inviting only one high school district that partnered with Fullerton College, but now extends to inner and outer city districts.
Caitlyn DeTavis, a student from El Dorado High School, says she’s excited to move to a bigger campus and compliments FC for its beautiful views.
As the event came to an end, students felt like they had something to look forward to in the fall, whether that be making new friends, taking new classes, or joining clubs.
