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Coachella 2026

My top 3 that made it unforgettable & my Top 3 I wish never happened

The group minus two

Top 3 that made it unforgettable

1. Friends

This was my first Coachella, and I couldn’t have spent it with better people. Being able to experience the festival with close friends was truly an unforgettable experience, as some of them were also experiencing it for the first time.

2. El Moro Churros
  • Coachella Announcement by El Morro
  • IG post by el Morro
  • personal picture

I was obsessed with these churros, and obsessed is an understatement. There are a couple of people selling churros and other snacks at the festival, but what attracted me the most about this one was their setup, which seemed like a little store. The churros were 4 for $20 or 2 for $12. The first day, I got the four pieces of churros twice because the way they are freshly made, soft yet crunchy, and had a dipping sauce, just made me hungry. On the other two days, I only got the four pieces of churros once, but got my friends to get them too. They are a churro company based in Mexico City, which was amazing to learn, as well as their opening a shop in LA.

3. First Latina Female Headliner
  • Karol G
  • All female mariachi
  • J Balvin
  • Becky G

Karol G is the first Latina female headliner at Coachella, and although this may not be big for some people, it is for my Latin community. I think she definitely delivered a great performance, bringing out some of my favorite Latin artists like Peso Pluma, Becky G, and J Balvin. She also brought out an all-female mariachi group, which was such a cool twist to her performance. I really do wish everyone I knew could experience this one night as everyone around us singing and dancing and just having the time of our lives.

Top 3 that I wish never happened

1. Waiting 3 hours to get a shuttle back home

It’s the night of Justin Bieber’s performance, and as we imagined, it was really full. I think it was the fullest set out of three headliners, and going back home at the same time as everyone was no joke. We had been at the festival for 8+ hours at this point, and I was excited to go home as I was tired from all the walking and my back had been hurting. When we got to the shuttle line, we realized we were towards the end, but didn’t think much about it until time started passing by. An hour went by, then another, and during the last hour, I checked the time, and it was 4:15 in the morning when Justin had ended his performance at 1 a.m. Thankfully, the shuttle came shortly after that, and I slept on the way home but didn’t get home until 5 a.m. I was in disbelief and told my group I hated Coachella and would not go on the last day.

2. Caring about the outfit

I took black boots the first day of the festival and instantly regretted it. I checked my Oura ring during the last set, and I had already gotten over 18k steps. I obviously didn’t learn my lesson because I wore boots for the last day as well, knowing my feet were super tired and I was probably going to get blisters. Why did I do it? I did it for the sole reason that it made the outfit put together. I was so worried about my outfits being cute that I forgot to pack comfy shoes. I also didn’t take into consideration that from all that walking and heat, my feet were going to swell up a bit. Are the pictures cute? I like to think so, but definitely not worth it, so the next time I go back I’m definitely dressing comfy.

3. Leaving my homework until the due day

This one is a no-brainer. The night before, I had gotten home at 5 a.m., and I knew my assignment was due that day at 10p.m. I had to make sure I woke up early to get it done, as I wasn’t sure how long it would take me to do. Thankfully, one of my friends helped me by making my breakfast as I worked on it, so I didn’t lose time. I have a recording section on the assignment, which always takes me a million times to keep it within the time frame, plus our other friends were starting to play loud music, and that’s when I hated myself for waiting. I got it done with only 1 hour left to shower, find the right outfit, do my makeup, and hair. I think this stress could’ve definitely been avoided, but at the end I’m glad I got it done just in time to enjoy our last day at Coachella.

Categories
Business music

Your New Go-to Bar: The Grape

Where jazz music meets good prices and grand ambiance

Are you tired of throwing your money away on overpriced drinks and going to the same rowdy dive bars? Then a jazz club might be what your soul needs. The lights are dim, there are whispers of conversation in between songs, the piano and saxophone notes fill the room. This defines a great jazz club. We are so lucky to have one of the best spots in southern California right here in Ventura.

Musicians from all around the world have performed at The Grape. The drummer from Tool, Danny Carrey has performed there quite a few times. Also musicians from Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band including Wayne Bergeron and Eric Marienthal. The Grape is a magnet for talent from all around the world. This is why it’s got such a rich and exquisite ambiance.

Danny Carrey (third from left) performing at The Grape.

The Grape also prides themselves with their extensive bar menu. They truly have one of the largest menus in Ventura and at affordable prices as well from wine to whiskey, gin, tequila, mezcal, to beer. Their wall is decorated with so many bottles. You must check it out for yourself. If it’s your first time going, I definitely recommend to check out their Happy Hour. Very college-friendly! The drinks are at amazing prices and they also have someone performing jazz or blues music to accompany your drink. If you do not drink, they have tea, etc. Light snacks can also be ordered to be paired with your drink. During their official evening showtimes, a ticket can range from $10-$25. If you would still like to experience the jazz magic but without the price, you may do so by sitting on some of the bar stools facing the inside of the other room where the performer/s are. A visit here is always worth it.

Here is someone sharing an image of them enjoying a hot tea at The Grape.

We all know college life can be very stressful. A great solution for that is going to The Grape to listen to some live music. Jazz and Blues music is known to be very beneficial for our brain health. This genre helps lower stress and anxiety levels. It also helps with creativity by activating theta brain waves and improves cognitive functions like memory and attention. A lot of college students can benefit from visiting this local gem.

This jazz club has an exclusive feeling to it, but it is very welcoming. I had a conversation with a guest who was relaxing at the bar, Miss Dana. I mentioned to her how the demographic at The Grape tends to be an older crowd and I wish there were more of my college peers spending their evenings here.

“I agree I hope more of the younger crowd can find their way over here. This place is always very welcoming. They kind of have to be. They realize that the younger generation are the ones in charge of keeping this culture alive.”

– Miss Dana, 63

I was able to spot a few younger people in the crowd. I conversed with Mathew. I asked him about his experience and how often does he attend The Grape.

“I really enjoy live music. It inspires me to keep practicing guitar. Maybe one day I’ll play here during their jam session nights where whoever can write their name on a list and play on the stage. I do wish more of my friends were down to come with me though. They’d rather go downtown, which don’t get me wrong is fine with me. But sometimes, live music and a glass of wine after a long day hits the spot just right. I try to come once a week.” – Mathew, 31

I did not expect to enjoy being at The Grape as much as I did. It ended up being one of the most relaxing and fun nights I’ve had in a while. Carve out some time to go relax at our local jazz club. It is 100% worth it. The staff is wonderful and very accommodating. The other guests are friendly and chatty. The bar is full of options for drinks and the price range is amazing. Listening to live music on a regular basis has been a game-changer for me! Hopefully I’ll see you there!

This was the performance on April 15.

This performance took place on February 11.

Categories
Business Food & Beverage Food & Dining Social Media Student Life at VC

Oxnard New Restaurant Review

Los Guerreros Restaurant/Cafe

​I recently reviewed a new restaurant in Oxnard called Los Guerreros Restaurant and Cafe, located at 111 S. Rose Ave. They’ve been open since January 2026, and the second I walked in, I got a real “at-home” feeling. It’s a quiet, relaxing spot that reminds me of a classic mom-and-pop shop the kind of place where you can actually eat in peace.

​The first thing that stood out to me was the value. In today’s world, finding a street hot dog for $5 is wild! We ordered the Inka Burger, Birria Tacos, and Mayan Fries, along with a Horchata and Agua de Fresa. My best advice? Go in with a huge appetite. The portions are massive and will definitely fill you up. Everything from the food to the drinks was delicious, and you really can’t beat those prices.

​Owner Q&A: Alvaro Ortiz

​I had the chance to sit down with the owner, Alvaro Ortiz, to talk about his vision for the restaurant/cafe.

​What inspired you to open a Mexican restaurant?

“The knowledge I have of Mexican food. I know I can make the best food to serve my customers.”

​Which of your salsas is the best?

“They are all great tasting!”

​Do you want to expand your business one day?

“Yes, I’d love to move into a bigger restaurant.”

​What is the biggest hardship you’ve faced since opening?

“Bringing in new customers and handling the marketing side of the business.”

Overall this restaurant was delicious and you must try it at least once.

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTk9bgsXo/

Categories
Nature & Outdoors

Guide to Ventura County Hiking

Hiking has always been something that I really enjoy, and I’m lucky enough to live in a city that has so many beautiful trails close by. Whether you’re in the mood for a lite, easy hike or an all day adventure Ventura County has so many options to choose from. Ventura County has some of the most unique and beautiful hiking trails, and I’d like to share with you some of my personal favorite trails ranging from easy, moderate, and difficult. 

Starting off with some easy trails, I would recommend the Ventura Botanical Gardens. The Botanical Gardens has a pretty short, out and back trail with easy inclines located in the hills right above Downtown Ventura. Throughout the hike there are tons of unique plants and flowers to admire along the way. As you continue hiking the view just keeps getting better and eventually you get a stunning overlook of the whole city. Now, you can either be a member at the Botanical Gardens to have daily access or pay a small entry fee, but it is free to hike here on Fridays and the upper portion of the trail is always free to hike on.  

Ventura Botanical Gardens
Rose Valley Falls

Another easy going trail that I love to spend time at is Rose Valley Falls in Ojai. This trail is a short out and back trail with very little inclines. At the end of this easy trail is a beautiful waterfall. This is the perfect hike to do if you don’t feel like going on a long strenuous hike but still want the reward of a gorgeous view. If you’re wanting a nice, peaceful day in nature then I would definitely recommend going to Rose Valley Falls. 

Moving on to some moderate level trails, I would like to mention the trails at Arroyo Verde Park. This is a loop style hike that’s a little longer than the trails I previously mentioned. I would say this is a moderate level hike because there is quite a bit of gradual uphill involved. In my opinion, this hike is definitely worth it because the trails are surrounded by wildflowers and the view gives you a unique perspective of Ventura.

I would also like to mention the Ventura Hills Nature Preserve trails that recently opened up earlier this year. These trails are on a more moderate level, as they are a bit lengthy and have some areas that are pretty steep. I really enjoyed checking out these new trails mainly because of the unique perspectives throughout the hike. The ocean view is obviously stunning in itself but I also found it pretty cool that about halfway through the hike you end up behind the hill giving you a really cool view you don’t normally see. So overall this hike gives you stunning views and great exercise. 

Ventura Hills Nature Preserve

And finally, if you’re looking for a full day adventure I’d recommend hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains. All of the trails in the Santa Monica Mountains are unique and memorable in their own ways, however, I’d like to put some spotlight on the trails that take you to Boney Peak. This hike is pretty difficult and strenuous yet it’s one of my favorites. A couple years back my mom, brother, and I did this hike and it was very memorable. I recently revisited the memories we had on this hike with my mom and got some of her opinions and asked her about her favorite parts. In this conversation she says, “I’ll never forget how diverse the terrain was throughout the whole hike.”, “I loved how almost every turn you make transports you to a different place.” And I couldn’t agree more, this was one of my favorite parts of this hike as well. The frequent change of scenery definitely motivated me to keep going. Although this was a very strenuous hike, the scenery and the view from one of the highest points in the mountain range made it all worth it. 

Boney Mountain Trail, Santa Monica Mountains

Overall you can’t go wrong when picking a trail to hike in Ventura County. There are so many other really cool hiking options here as well that I wasn’t able to mention in this article. If you are interested in other trails in the area (or anywhere really) I would highly recommend getting the Alltrails app. This app is super helpful when looking for new trails and finding up to date reviews on them as well. 

https://www.alltrails.com/

Categories
Business community Social Media Student Life at VC

How the Ventura College Foundation Changes Lives Through Student Support

As a student at Ventura College, I’ve always known there were resources available to help students succeed, but after speaking with Pete Parker, Director of Development for the Ventura College Foundation, I realized just how much support is actually available behind the scenes.

The Ventura College Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping students overcome barriers that may stand in the way of their education. Whether it’s financial struggles, housing challenges, food insecurity, or even transportation, the foundation works to make sure students have what they need to continue their academic journey.

One of the biggest ways the foundation supports students is through scholarships. This year alone, the foundation is awarding over one million dollars in scholarships, which is an incredible milestone. These scholarships can make a life-changing difference, especially for students who might otherwise have to pause or stop their education due to financial stress.

Pete explained that the foundation’s goal is simple: remove barriers so students can succeed. While financial support is the most common need, the foundation also works closely with programs like the Ventura College Basic Needs Center and the Promise Program to ensure students are supported in every aspect of their lives. These programs provide essential resources like food, school supplies, and additional support systems that help students stay focused on their education.

What many students may not realize is that some of this support is made possible through community involvement, including the Ventura College Marketplace, which helps generate funding that goes back into student programs and scholarships. This connection really shows how the campus and the community work together to support student success.

Something that really stood out to me was learning that the foundation is actually separate from the college itself. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works as an external partner, connecting the community to the college. Through donations and partnerships, they are able to fund scholarships and support programs that directly impact students.

The scholarship process is also much simpler than many students might expect. There is only one application that opens in October and closes in February. From there, students are matched with scholarships based on factors like GPA, major, and personal background. The foundation also provides workshops and support through the Writing Center to help students submit strong applications.

What makes the foundation truly special is the connection between donors and students. At the annual scholarship ceremony, donors get to meet the students they are supporting, creating a meaningful and personal experience. Pete shared that seeing students smile, celebrate, and even cry tears of joy when they receive support is the most rewarding part of his work.

As a recipient of two scholarships myself, this experience is incredibly personal. Being a single mom returning to school, support like this makes it possible for me to continue my education and work toward my goals. Receiving two scholarships through the Ventura College Foundation has been life-changing, and I’m deeply thankful to the donors who made that possible. Their support goes further than they may ever realize.

At the end of the day, the foundation’s mission is clear—they want students to succeed. They want to see students achieve their dreams and continue growing even after they leave Ventura College. It’s not just about the time spent on campus, but about building a lifelong connection and support system.

If you are a student at Ventura College, I highly recommend applying for scholarships and exploring the resources available. You never know how much support is out there until you take that first step.

To learn more, visit the Ventura College Foundation website or explore the Basic Needs Center to see the resources available to students.

Categories
Advice community Nature & Outdoors Student Life at VC

Why Community Is So Important: A Mental Health Epidemic

What We Know

Here’s a hard truth; In this day and age, almost everyone- if not struggling themself, knows someone that is struggling. 

10 years ago, mental health was talked about a fraction of the amount it is talked about now. It has become a bigger conversation than ever, especially for students. Between school, work, relationships, the pressure to “have it all figured out”, and just trying to be a decent person, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and even isolated. 

But one thing keeps coming up in these conversations: community matters.

The term “community” can mean a lot of things, so it’s important we define it before we start valuing it. Community is found in the people we spend time with, the spaces we feel comfortable in, and the interactions we have daily. And while many people think of community as a big, obvious display of connection (clubs, organizations, large groups), it can also be a lot simpler. For most students it can look like a friend you can talk to between classes, a local barista that knows your order, a phone call with someone you trust, or a teacher that checks in on you. Living in a small town, and especially one as warm as Ventura, most of these aren’t foreign concepts.

According to conversations with several Ventura College students, one of the hardest parts of struggling mentally isn’t always the stress itself, but it’s feeling like you have to deal with it alone. 

I talked with a senior named Relle; she shared,

“I don’t think I realized how much I needed people until I stopped seeing them regularly.”

It’s a feeling that’s more common than we think. 

While there isn’t a “twice daily pill” or quick fix to struggling with mental health, connection does make it more manageable. It is our human nature to need places where we can let loose, laugh, talk, and not feel like we’ll be voted out like “Survivor” for being ourselves. 

Building real connection can start with small, consistent choices. Here’s some ways students are already doing it: 

  1. Becoming a “regular” somewhere. Coffee shops, a study spot, walking around campus, showing up consistently creates familiarity, and with enough effort, connection.
  2. Invite. Be the first to reach out! If everyone always waited for someone else to include them, no one would be invited anywhere. Take the initiative, even if it’s scary, it’s better than not trying at all. Here are some suggestions from VC students,  

“Do you want to grab coffee? Would you want to study together? Can I give you a ride somewhere?” 

3. Put your phone down! (Sometimes) Most people’s phone is their digital implant- hardly ever leaves their hand. Feeling that someone cares enough about what you’re saying to give you their full attention doesn’t go unnoticed and means so much more than you think. Think back to any time you’ve been talking to someone that’s on their phone. I bet it still conjures up just as much frustration now as it did then. Now think back to a conversation you’ve had with someone that looked you in the eyes. I bet you felt much more listened to, much more cared for, and much closer to that person. Listening is how we build connection, and therefore, community.

4. Low pressure. If you feel that every interaction you have to have with a person has to be meaningful, deep, and groundbreaking, that can be a lot of pressure. And chances are, you don’t always have the energy for those types of conversations. So keep it light, take the pressure off, and meet people where you are. Taking the steps to reach out, even causally, ensures you don’t slip away to an island of isolation, and that you continue to build reliable relationships.

Having “Go-to” spots also helps. Ventura naturally creates opportunities for connection (you just got to take advantage of them).

You can try: Any one of our beautiful beaches or walking paths, coffee shops (Daylight and Moon, Freedom Coffee, and Room Service are some of my favorites), places on the VC campus (the library, student center, outdoor benches/quad), local parks or lookout spots (Cemetary park, Arroyo Verde park, Surfers Point).

Having places you can depend on makes planning so much simpler. One student said,

“Something about being out in nature makes it so much easier to open up.”

I couldn’t agree more, and Ventura makes that extremely accessible.

If there’s one takeaway, let it be this: you’re not supposed to go through everything yourself. When things feel hard, or stressful, or completely overwhelming, it feels easy to push people away and deal with your problems alone. But trust me when I say, that won’t solve anything. Building community, especially in the hard times creates relationships to last. Community won’t solve all your problems, but it will help you remember that you’re seen, supported, and not the only one figuring things out. You don’t have to completely uproot your life and change your schedule, or friendships, or habits. You just have to put in a little effort. Text someone. Sit with someone. Invite someone. It might matter more than you think. 

Categories
community Student Life at VC

Inside the Shelter: The Work Behind Caring for Animals Like Chipotle

Meet Chipotle! She is a 5 year old pitbull currently at the Ventura County Animal shelter. She is a staff favorite there at the shelter, known for loving to cuddle and everyone she meets, even new faces. She even helps welcome new volunteers on their first day. She loves plushies, ear scratches, and is very friendly towards all.

Chipotle’s daily life at the shelter is simple. Living her days in an outdoor kennel, going on walks, and interacting with staff and volunteers when possible. She lives in a busy and loud environment, like many animals in the shelter, which can affect their wellbeing. It can be stressful, yet still, when given those moments of attention from people, it can make a big difference in her day.

We treat people and animals with dignity, empathy, and kindness.

VCAS

The Ventura County Animal Services’ mission is to improve the lives and well-being of the animals in their care while they wait for adoption. Staff and Volunteers provide food, medical care, cleaning, and assistance in finding potential homes. They strive to show compassion in the community and educate pet families to support the human-animal bond.

Chipotle has been at the shelter since December 17, 2024, 486 days. Even though she is well-loved at the shelter and very friendly, she has yet to find her forever home due to misconceptions about her breed. The other main reasons for this are that she struggles with other dogs and can pull on the leash during walks. Despite these challenges that can be worked with, Chipotle has shown how she would love to be a part of a family (as a couch potato).

Volunteers play a big role in supporting the shelter’s daily work. Nicole, a VC student, explained why she decided to volunteer.

“I had some downtime, and having visited the shelter a couple times, I was really interested in volunteering.”

“For my English class, we had this assignment where we’d write an essay about something we’ve never done before…so for that assignment I volunteered!”

She described how volunteer work depends on what the shelter needs each day. “You refer to what’s on the schedule or whiteboard and allocate yourself to where you’re needed,” she explained. Tasks can include laundry, donations, dish washing, kennel washing, and refilling treats. This depends on what needs help with at the moment. As Nicole told me, “Everyone’s doing something.”

Volunteer and Mercury!
(fellow dog in shelter)
Sabrina Carpenter, the Bearded Dragon
Volunteer Tasks

Some volunteers also work directly with animals through walking and enrichment activities. Nicole explained that the enrichment helps keep the dogs engaged while they wait to be adopted. This includes playtime and training-based activities like “click for quiet,” which rewards calm behavior.

Balancing school, volunteering, work, and personal life can be difficult. For example, even with the little time Nicole has had since picking up more hours at her job while being in school at the same time, she still dedicates her downtime to doing 2-3 hours a week. This shows just how much effort a volunteer has to make to help out. Everyone has different circumstances, yet they still do their utmost to contribute in any way they can to help these animals in need.

Overall, the Ventura County Animal Shelter relies on both staff and volunteers to care for animals like Chipotle. While she waits to find a home she’s supported by people who help out in many different ways.

The community can help to make a difference, like volunteering, adopting instead of shopping, or just helping spread awareness. Even a small amount of help can have a positive impact, especially with issues like overcrowding in shelters.

Links to their website and Socials!

Categories
community Student Life at VC Study Spots

The Ultimate Study Spot Guide: Ventura College & Local Hidden Gems

Finding a good place to study isn’t always easy. A lot of spots look great at first, but end up having uncomfortable seating, too much noise, no WIFI, or nowhere to plug in your charger. All of that can make it hard to stay focused and actually get work done. To make things easier, I went out to find different study locations around the Ventura College campus and throughout Ventura County. After spending time in a variety of spots, I put together a list of places that are actually worth your time, whether you’re looking for something quiet, comfortable, or just a change of scenery.

Ventura College Campus Study Spots

The library quiet areas and reading room are easily the most reliable study spots on campus. If your goal is to really lock in and focus, this is where you want to be. The second floor is especially quiet with many areas to sit. The WIFI is strong, there are plenty of outlets, and the desks are big enough to spread out your work and study comfortably. The overall environment is calm and peaceful, which makes it easier to stay on task. This is the best option for things like studying for exams, writing essays, or anything that requires full concentration. Rank: #1

The library study rooms are another great option, especially if you need a private space. I noticed the rooms don’t block out noise very well, but if you just need a space to yourself or with a group, this is the spot for you. They come with a large table, outlets, and a whiteboard. The WIFI is just as strong as the rest of the library, and having your own space makes it easier to stay focused for longer periods of time. The only downside is that they aren’t always available and need to be reserved, but when you can get one, they’re one of the best spots on campus. Rank: #2

The Learning Resource Center (LRC) on the first floor is a good middle ground if you don’t mind a little background noise. It’s more of a collaborative space, so people are talking and working together. Because of that, it’s not the best for deep focus, but it works really well for getting assignments done, using computers, or studying. The WIFI is strong, there are plenty of outlets, and you also have access to tutoring and other resources. If you like a space that feels productive but not completely silent, this is a great choice. Rank: #3

The outdoor tables around campus, especially the ones farther away from the main walkways, are another great option. These spots can be surprisingly peaceful if you choose the right location and time of day. They’re great for casual studying, reviewing notes, or working on assignments when the weather is nice. The downside is that there is no outlets and noise levels can vary depending on how busy campus is. Still, if you find a quieter area, it can be a really good place to stay productive without feeling stuck inside. Rank: #4

Local Hidden Study Spots

Switching to off campus spots, some of these places are a little more hidden and sometimes unpredictable in the best way. And by hidden, I mean those tucked away spots you’d probably walk right past without thinking twice, like small cafes or quiet corners between businesses. I wanted to showcase places you might not usually consider, but once you try them, they end up becoming your go to study spot.

Tree Lounge in Camarillo is a great option if you’re looking for a calm and comfortable place to study. The atmosphere is very relaxed, which makes it easy to focus without feeling overwhelmed or distracted. They offer WIFI and outlets, which makes it a reliable spot for longer study sessions. One thing that really makes this place stand out is that it’s accommodating for students who have kids. There’s a coloring area for children with paper and markers, so it’s a good choice if you need to study but also keep your child occupied. They also have outdoor seating with access to outlets, which is perfect if you want some fresh air while working. It rarely gets too busy, so you can usually count on it being a peaceful and comfortable place to get your work done. Rank: #1

Tifa Chocolate & Gelato in Camarillo is a great study spot, especially if you’re looking for something fun and relaxing. The atmosphere is warm and comforting, which makes it easy to settle in and stay for a while. Inside, the tables are set up with board and card games like chess, checkers, connect 4, and more, which can actually be a nice way to take a break if you’re studying with friends. They also have WIFI and a good amount of outlets. If you want some fresh air or a quieter space, there is an outdoor seating area tucked between the building and a grocery store, which makes it feel more private and less crowded. Overall, this spot works really well for both group study sessions and more relaxed solo work. Rank: #2

Palm & Boy Coffee and Acai in Ventura is another great option if you’re more focused on the overall vibe. its located on Main Street but tucked away at the end of the El Jardin Courtyard, so it feels a bit hidden. The outdoor seating area is really nice and gives the place a cozy, aesthetic feel. But the seating is pretty limited, which can be a downside. they offer free WIFI, but there aren’t any outlets, so it’s not ideal for long sessions if your laptop needs charging. It can also get a little busy, so it’s not the best choice if you need complete silence. Still, if you’re just looking for a comfortable place with good energy to get some work done, this is the place for you. Rank: #3

Valle Lindo Park in Camarillo is a good option if you want a completely different kind of study environment. It’s a very peaceful park with large open grass areas, that are perfect for a picnic style studying session, with long bench tables that work well for groups. The bench areas do require reservations, but the park itself stays pretty quiet overall, especially away from the playground. One thing that helps is that there are rules in place that limit loud music and certain activities, so it doesn’t get too chaotic. There isn’t any WIFI or outlets, so its not the best spot if you need your laptop for a long period of time, but if you just need a calm space to read, write, or review notes, its a great option. Rank: #4

At the end of the day, the best study spot really comes down to what helps you stay focused and comfortable. Everyone studies a little differently, so it’s worth trying out a few of these places and seeing what works best for you. Hopefully, you found a new study spot that you can try out and make your own.

Categories
Arts & Entertainment music Podcasts Student Life at VC

Life as an Artist & Student

A dive into the challenges, positives, and everything in between that come with being a full time student and an artist simultaneously, specifically in the lanes of music and fashion. Topics covered include time management, accomplishments and more. Special Guest appearance by ⁠TyeDye⁠!

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Check Out my ⁠Blog

Categories
Advice Student Life at VC

How to Master Balancing Multiple Responsibilities as a Community College Student

Many community college students have other responsibilities they have to balance on top of school. This could be working full-time jobs, parenting, managing mental health, and other major responsibilities that could interfere or hinder education. Balancing these roles can feel overwhelming and exhausting. For this article, I talked with students from different backgrounds about how they balance school and life. It looks at the challenges they face and shares tips that might help others dealing with similar struggles.

Heather Ornelas, a student parent attending Ventura College, has experienced times in her life where she was caring for her mother, raising her teenage son, and attending school full-time all at once. She admitted that,

“It can feel overwhelming trying to give your best in every area of your life at once.”

Heather shares a feeling that many student parents experience, which is the pressure to do well in school while still caring for family. This stressful situation can have a big impact on mental health if not managed. That’s why having a strong plan is so important when life gets busy. Staying organized is how Heather balances hers.

“I rely a lot on planning ahead. I check Canvas daily, write down all my deadlines, and break bigger assignments into smaller steps so they don’t pile up. I also try to work ahead when I know I have a busy week coming up.”

These tips reduce a lot of stress and make time for other responsibilities. Having a structured schedule and planning ahead can really make a difference for students. When mapping out your week, setting aside time for classes, work shifts, and family, everything will start to feel more manageable.

On stressful days, prioritizing mental health is really important. For Heather, she uses campus resources and focuses on her personal wellness to help manage stress.

“I’ve used counseling resources on campus, which helped me talk through things instead of holding everything in. I’ve also started going to the gym regularly, which has made a huge difference in managing stress and anxiety.”

It’s important to use school resources when you need assistance or guidance. A lot of students try to handle stress, problems with academics, or financial challenges on their own, but colleges provide many helpful resources that they could be using for help. Many colleges offer counseling, tutoring, advising, and other support systems specifically to help students navigate difficult situations.

Every students situation is difference, so the way they manage their responsibilities will be different too. While some, like Heather, juggle parenting and caregiving, others, like Eddie, that have to manage the physical and mental strain of full-time employment.

A full-time mechanic and student, Eddie has days that are often long and exhausting. His biggest challenge, he explained, has been:

“Getting a full 8 hours of sleep, squeezing in time for homework, and balancing my personal life.”

After spending most of his day at work, he has found that he has little energy to focus on assignments. This can easily lead to missing assignments, grade drops, or added stress if not managed carefully. To prevent this, Eddie has found some solutions that has helped him:

“I plan ahead and map out deadlines on a calendar to stay on top of homework. I like to set reminders a few days before assignments are due to help prevent stress. I also think it’s important to create a consistent weekly routine, such as dedicating certain times of the day for homework.”

Planning a schedule you can consistently follow that fits your daily responsibilities can make a significant difference in staying organized and productive. Building a steady routine will also improve discipline and make you feel in control of a busy life.

Heather and Eddie’s experiences show that balance isn’t about having fewer responsibilities but more about managing them correctly. Their stories show the importance of planning, using available resources, protecting mental health, and staying on top of assignments.

Hopefully, these tips and experiences from community college students can give guidance and encouragement as you manage your own busy schedule.