LPC gains more students from bigger universities

The Las Positas student body is like the student body at any other community college, as it has a large diversity of people with different backgrounds. While on campus, you may see a variety of faces, from the mother who has decided to return to school to the 17-year-old student who is looking to take as many credits as possible in order to transfer early to even the students with degrees already looking to change career paths. 

This medley that is Las Positas’ student body has recently gained another variety of students looking to gain an education from this community college. These students  are those who are coming to Las Positas from a four year university. 

These students are coming back to Las Positas from universities primarily due to COVID-19. This decision could be looked at as beneficial for these students for multiple reasons whether it be for convenience, financial, or even just logical reasons

“I came to Las Positas College to take a variety of classes while saving money and staying safe from COVID-19 as well,” said Wesley Shamblen, an ex-Arizona State University student, who has decided to return to Las Positas. Shamblen made sure that her decision was the best for her stating, “If students are not comfortable going back to their college campus, and it’s still open, I do think they should take classes at LPC (or any other community college).”

This decision did not come easy for Shamblen, “At first I was sad to be going home because my two closest friends would be going back to the campus,” she said.

While some students are coming from a four year to a community college, the inverse also seems to be true. Some Las Positas students are waiting to transfer due to the fears that come along with COVID-19 and the financial costs that come with attending a four year university for online classes.

“I was planning on last semester being my last semester here at Las Positas, but when COVID hit, I decided that maybe I should stick around in order to retake some classes I’m not too happy about my grades in and avoid paying a university tuition to receive an online education,” said Anjelica Gonzalez, a student with her transfer degree. She expressed concern about the uncertainty in her future that came with COVID-19.

Those who have returned may appreciate what LPC has to offer, too. Despite her disappointment about not returning to Arizona State, Shamblen was positive about attending LPC. She said, “Las Positas has great professors that will help continue you on your path. It saves you money, and it keeps you safe.” 

One thing that is present during these times is uncertainty, but also there is hope in Las Positas will be able to accommodate anyone who chooses to attend.

Kiano Deperalta is a staff writer for The Express. Follow him @kkdeperalta.