Tag: student life

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Culture & Student Life

5 Easy Steps for Transferring

We go to college to learn from our professors but sometimes we end up being the ones that teach ourselves. I started my educational journeys a few years ago and although I can’t remember the process, I do remember the fear of the unknown. Well guess what, during your second year you start to feel that same bundle of nerves. It usually happens around January when your friends start talking about transferring. Fear not I am going to tell you the 5 must do things for easy transferring.  

1.See the counselor. This is your guide to all things with school. Ideally you will meet with a counselor when you first arrive at college and create an educational plan. At the beginning of your sophomore year, you will meet with the counselor again. This is when you will make sure  you are taking the correct classes for your major and you will receive the application deadlines for the colleges you want to apply to.  

2. Apply for Finacial aid. Ideally you filled out your FAFSA when you started college. The second time that you apply will be much easier. Most of your information is already saved in your profile be sur to adjust any changes. When you reapply in the fall of your sophomore year add all the colleges you think you would like to attend. This is free so don’t be shy to add a few to the list. You will get info from the colleges in the spring as a reminder. Home | Federal Student Aid 

Speaking of free money it is scholarship time!!!!! Apply to all the scholarships you can you never know you might get awarded enough to pay for first year tuition. 

3. It is very important to visit the transfer center to get guidance on how to apply. They also will be the first ones to celebrate with you when the time comes. They hold a transfer celebration dinner in April for the students and their family. You will check in with the center in the fall and again in the spring of your sophomore year. Or as many times as you need assistance, they are there for you specifically for these questions. 

4. See your counselor again in early spring. You have to do a graduation check to verify you are ready to transfer. The counselor will also send in the application to graduate. This is what gives you your diploma and allows you the privilege to walk at the commencement ceremony. Don’t let the heart fluttering thought distract you. Have a copy of your transcripts and ask the counselor how to read them. You will need to enter your course information on the college application. 

5.Apply for college usually in February or March; make note of important deadlines, they will come faster than expected.  You only need to apply to one website; from there you can send it out statewide. This is where financial aid comes in handy as you could qualify to apply for FREE. You will know if it is zero cost when you finalize your application prior to submitting. Note the option will only be present if you meet the requirement AND put the school on your FAFSA last fall. This is the link for applying Cal State Apply | CSU 

So, while in middle of studying for finals getting ready to graduate, you wait….and wait, to hear if you got in. Be patient and think positive ‘stop staring at the inbox. ‘It’s time for scholarships, dean lists and (drumroll please) …transfer!! 

Cheering and applause -congratulations you have been accepted. 

Now you will repeat what you did a few years ago, signing up for programs, classes and clubs. The process will feel overwhelming but just remember to ask questions and reach out. Follow the directions of your counselors and reach out to the college representatives. They know exactly how to help you.  Submit what the college asks as soon as you receive the life changing email. Start working on transcripts as soon as you can, they are the hardest part of the application. It is a long process, but they will have orientation and new student mixers. Remember you are standing shoulder to shoulder with other people just like you and of course there is always new swag to look forward to!! Be proud of what you have accomplished, it’s ok to be scared. Make an appointment with an academic advisor and visit the new student center. Always follow their suggestions and sail away pirate, you’re on your way to your next adventure 

Categories
Culture & Student Life Food & Beverage

Ugly Sushi

Do you love sushi, but maybe not the price of a night out for a sushi dinner? Make ugly sushi with me in the comfort of your own kitchen. Yes, it may look ugly, but the taste is grade A! It’s not easy to make sushi the first time, so I will help prepare you for your sushi journey with my own experience.

Skip to Steps

We, Ventura Locals, has access to county’s best sushi grade fish. I found mine at Ocean Pride of Ventura. This fish market has been open since 1999, only carry’s fresh fish, and was even named in The Ventura Reporter’s “Best of Ventura”. It’s a little hidden among the industrial buildings next to the Ventura Car Mall. Just let owner, Tom Moore, know you’re making sushi tonight, and he’ll help you with what you need. Check out their website for peek at their menu.

To be honest, knowing that I had access to fresh fish cut at a sushi grade, I wanted to take on the fun task of making sushi at home. I called up my sister and drafted her for sushi fun.

Step One: Prepare yourself

I watched a couple of YouTube videos that took me step-by-step through making sushi rolls with various ingredients. This step is important; you don’t want to explore the art of making sushi blind. Plus, it ensures you have all the items you need, and it gives you ideas you may not have had.

Step Two: Equipment

Feel like the professionals with a bamboo mat to roll your sushi. I didn’t find this at Ocean Pride, so I took myself to Seafood City Supermarket for any other equipment I needed. There, I found a cute sushi set that had a bamboo mat, a wooden bowl, and a wooden rice scoop. 

Step Three: Ingredients

Have fun here! Find the ingredients you’d normally like when going out for sushi, even the sauces. Here’s a list of the core ingredients:

  • Sushi rice.
  • Rice Wine Powder or Vinegar.
  • Bamboo mat.
  • Plastic wrap.
  • nori (seaweed sheets)
  • soy sauce.
  • Toasted sesame seeds.

Don’t forget your fish! I bought a pound of King Salmon and a pound of Ahi Tuna from Ocean Pride. This did cost me a pretty penny, just shy of $90. But I bought enough for four people, and I think $90 was cheaper than taking four people to a sushi restaurant.

Step Four: Get cooking! 

Preparing your sushi rice should be the first thing you do once you start putting together your rolls. You want some time for it to cool off, and this is the most challenging part. I didn’t believe this until I started making sushi rice for the first time; it’s more important than the fish itself! It’s best to refer to the instructions on the sushi rice package or YouTube. I used Nishiki rice.

*Warning: Be careful with the amount of rice vinegar you put in the rice. The vinegar’s flavor can overpower the flavor of your fish. I sadly failed to notice the instructions on the back of my rice package and did just that. 

Once your rice is finished, you can start rollin’!

Final Step: Enjoy!

Dinner time! Now you can enjoy your creation. Even though my first time making sushi didn’t come out as I would have liked, my rolls may looked ugly, but they tasted almost restaurant status. My company and I had fun, and I cannot wait to do it again.

Would you make sushi at home? Comment below telling us if you will or any past experiences.

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Categories
Culture & Student Life

Post College Journey

Graduating is a huge milestone that one will always remember. It’s about celebrating your accomplishments and recognizing the sacrifices you made to reach the finish line. After graduating high school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with my life, but I knew I wanted to continue my education. Now that I’m about to graduate from Ventura College, I still don’t have all the answers. There’s no one size fits all answer to what one should do after graduation. Discovering your passion takes time, and only you can determine what feels right for you. Even though I’m still uncertain about my post graduation plans, I know it’s not the end of the world.

Here are some steps to consider after graduation:

Start your own business:

Starting your own business can help you discover your passion for entrepreneurship or pursue something you’re passionate about.

Take a gap year:

Feeling unsure and overwhelmed is the perfect time to focus on yourself. This can help you gain clarity on what you want to do and determine your next steps.

Continue your education:

Furthering your education may be the right choice for your career. Additional education can provide the opportunities necessary for certain jobs.

Find internships:

Internships offer valuable experience in your field you study and can help your career by gaining practice skills and networking.

Turn your passion into a job:

If you’re passionate about something, consider turning it into a career. This is your time to invest on what makes you happy and willing to peruse each day. 

Advice after college:

The best advice after college is to embrace what makes you happy and always continue learning. Be open to new opportunities and experiences, even if it takes you outside your comfort zone. Remember that setbacks are part of growth, so stay calm and maintain a positive attitude. Always trust in your abilities and pursue paths that will align with your values and aspirations. At the end of the day, your journey after college is about your personal interests, strengths, and aspirations.

Categories
Culture & Student Life Nature & Outdoors

Finals Are Coming

by Nancy Olascuaga

Finals week is coming, and those sleepless nights are upon us. The next two weeks is a time of studying late at night, eating junk food, and drinking so much coffee! For those who are graduating, and those who will register for classes next semester, this is a stressful time, yes its temporary, but still stressful. With this academic year coming to a close: full of successes and stresses, going to Ventura Beach will help you manage stress and self care.

Here’s a list of why and how walking or sitting on a bench at Ventura beach will help you destress and make your finals week a memorable one:

The Smell: The scent of the sea is refreshing. Take a few deep breaths and take in the fresh and salty aroma. Taking deep breaths improves lung function, lowers stress, and improves concentration.

The Touch: If you walk barefoot or bury your hands in the sand, its’ particles will stimulate your psyche and your skin.

The Sound: The sound of the waves will help you feel optimistic and positive about your upcoming finals. The sound of nature will help soothe your body and relax your mind.

The Sight: You’ll see many people walking/jogging, long palm trees, and very talented surfers. If you catch a sunrise or a luminous sunset your body will relax and reduce stress. Watching the waves will boost your confidence going into finals, you will crush them!

Make sure you add some beach time to your finals study plans, or go afterwards with friends or alone. Surviving these next two weeks will set you up for a successful future in your awesome future academic endeavors, and it doesn’t have to be chaotic or full of stress.

Categories
Culture & Student Life

Ready to Graduate? Your Guide to Applying for Graduation at Ventura College

Ventura College Overview

The City of Ventura is currently home to 109,527 people. Astonishingly, it’s estimated that 10.76% of the city’s residents are enrolled at its public community college, Ventura College This institution for higher learning is part of the Ventura County Community College District, including Oxnard College, and Moorpark College. In 2024, the 112-acre campus was home to 11,789 students, with 3,383 full-time and 8,406 part-time students. Recent modernization initiatives have provided funding for much-needed updates to the college’s infrastructure and online student portal, making this college a top choice for those currently in the workforce, and returning to school to advance their careers.

Nestled at the foot of the Topatopa Mountains, and only 5 minutes from the Ventura Beaches. 

For those who wish to transfer to a 4-year institution, academic programs offer plenty of pathways to continue studies in popular majors like Business, Psychology, and Sciences. They also offer trade programs for automotive mechanics, manufacturing & welding, and agriculture or water science. 2-year programs are also available and popular choices include nursing, criminal justice, child development & early education. Smaller class sizes offer students a personal feel to students, and student support programs are available to aid in success.

It’s unique and affordable.

It’s flexible and doable.

Hang that piece of paper that society insists you have on your wall.

Going into this semester I knew I checked all the boxes needed to earn my A.S. in Social Media Marketing. No one tells you that you need to apply for your degree.

I almost missed the deadline. 

You won’t though, because here’s the how-to guide on applying for graduation (associates or certificates) at Ventura College.

Understanding the Process

Meeting with an academic counselor each semester will help you stay on track and reach completion. The admissions office can assist with applying credits taken at another institution. Academic counselors are also available to help you decide on a career path or help with Academic renewal, probation, or other situations that you may encounter.

Eligibility Criteria for Graduation

It’s important to understand the course requirements for completion of your program as defined by the college. I recommend visiting the Program Mapper page located on the Ventura College website. Locate your program, then compare your unofficial transcript with the program map. If you have checked all the boxes by the end of that semester, you’re ready to start the process (If not, then at least you know what courses remain for you to complete).

Key Dates & Deadlines

Although there is no official deadline to submit your application, there is a cutoff date to participate in the Graduation ceremony. I recommend checking the student calendar for any information about deadlines. It is also good to know when the ceremony will take place in case you need to request a date off of work or want to invite people. Holidays or office closures will also be listed to avoid unavailable staff.

Step-by-Step Guide

A staff member of the academic counseling department is the correct person to engage at this point and you can find more information here VC Website Link.

I’ll save you a click.

Call (805) 289-6457 or make an appointment through your MyVCCCD portal by clicking on Starfish

Graduation application deadlines are listed in the Registration Calendar

Starfish is located in your MyVCCCD Portal as shown below:

Schedule an appointment by using the online tool:

Select a reason for the visit: Apply for a degree or certification

Select a Counselor –  I recommend choosing one that specializes in your program of study

Make an appointment – remote meetings are available!

You will review your transcript with the counselor and they will confirm you have met the requirements. Shortly after the meeting, they will submit the application on your behalf,  and ask if you would like to participate in the graduation ceremony. You will then receive a confirmation email with more information about your application. 

The process is quick and as long as you complete your current classes in your field of study with a C or better, you’re qualified. A third party will send you your diploma or certificate about 8 weeks after the end of the semester.

Preparing for the Ceremony

You will receive an automated email from Ventura College that asks if you would like to participate in the ceremony. You can request up to 4 tickets, and children under two do not require one to enter. The email will contain all the information about buying your gown, which is about $50.

Resources and Support

If you have any questions, you can always reach out to the academic counseling office and they can do their best to assist you, or point you in the direction of the correct department on campus.

Conclusion

Congratulations. The most important thing about this accomplishment is you completed something you started. The pathway to completion is available on the user-friendly program mapper and support is available at the academic counseling office. I wish you luck on your continued education and I hope you find this guide helpful when your time to apply for graduation approaches.

Stay current by following the VC Social Instagram page or sharing it with friends. Ventura College is host to one of the only social media marketing programs, we appreciate your support and engagement. 

Cheers to the next class of students in this program and many more in the future.

Written by Nick Lerma

I am a VC student who previously attended several colleges including Ventura/Santa Barbara City Colleges, The Los Angeles Recording School, & The Culinary Institute of America. I am currently working towards a bachelor’s degree in Business. My professional experience consists of digital audio production and on-air broadcasting (Cumulus Media ’07-’10), supporting business information systems (’10-’13, ’17-’20), Hospitality (’14-’17), and Sales/Marketing (’20-’24).

Categories
Food & Beverage

MadeWest: A Brewery With A Mission

This is the story of MadeWest Brewing Company, which was founded in 2013 by Mike Morrison and his good friend Seth Gibson. MadeWest was born in a small garage in San Diego, CA, where the home brew kit was put to work, and their very first IPA was made. Mike and Seth believe that great beer brings people together, and they knew immediately that there was something magical happening. http://www.madewest.com

After winning second place at a brew competition, it was clear that people loved the product. Fast-forward to 2013, MadeWest finally opened its doors in the town of Ventura, CA which finally received its first taproom and brewery. Today, their mission is still the same: Make good beer and get people together. They work hard to stay with the current trends while still being innovative at the same time. They do this all while collaborating with their good friends over at Prospect Coffee Roasters to make award-winning Porters. At either of their locations you can browse and purchase from their wide array of clothing and goods collection. From shirts, hats, mugs, and growlers, there is sure to be something for everyone. They serve as excellent mementos to help remind customers of the great memories they experienced after enjoying a craft beer.

Some of their award-winning beers are part of collaboration with other well-known breweries. These are part of a Short-Lived Series, but you don’t want to miss out when these get released. Follow @madewestbeer on Instagram to get updates on all things beer. You may also visit http://www.prospectcoffee.com to learn more about how Prospect Coffee got into the game with MadeWest Brewing and how their love of coffee parallels their love of beer.

If you have not been to their original location, stop by during the week and say hi to Mike if he is in the taproom or just drop in for a pint of the best beer in town. I am sure you will be greeted with a smile and will want to immerse yourself in the nostalgia of craft brew beginnings. Sample the beers and give some honest reviews. I truly believe that this is a note-worthy experience. I know I have always enjoyed sharing a beer with friends as well as making new ones while surrounded by their fantastic community.

Customer testimonials are a true testament to how well this brewery has been received by locals and travelers alike. See what a few customers had to say.

From MadeWest Customers

“This place is awesome for so many reasons. The most obvious is great beer and variety of it. I have 2 kids and the place is great to grab a drink and hang out on the patio while they play one of their giant Jenga games. Great to have a place like this in Ventura!” -Matt Leonard

“Dog friendly brewery with several great beers on tap, plus food trucks on the outside patio. Fun inside space, great for a large group. They also have four packs, growlers that are available for take away once you’ve sampled their beers in house” – Laura Williams

Commercial Video
Image of tap and award medals
Image of last week’s award for best pale ale
Categories
Culture & Student Life

5 Study Tips To Try Out

When going to school, it is likely that you will have to study so you are able to maintain your grades and pass your classes. Retaining knowledge through studying is one of the keys to being successful in college classes. Today, I will like to share you some tips that you should consider trying out in your study routine!

1. Plan Out Your Schedule

In college, some of us may have more obligations besides school, such as work and family. It is important to decide which time of the day and week is the best fit for you. With this, a planned study session chunk will help you be more productive and also play a role in determining your time management. You will also get used to having a routine for what you plan to go over for the study session the more you practice this habit.

2. Consider Studying in a Different Space

Many students may feel comfortable to use a singular space to study, whether its their bedroom, the kitchen table, etc. But sometimes, the too familiar surroundings might make you feel that you are not as productive as before. This can make some of us to feel sidetracked, such as looking at the comfy bed in your bedroom that you want to jump back into, or you see the television that’s sitting with its black mirror right in front of you waiting for you to turn it on. Picking a different spot to choose can be out of the comfort zone for many of us, and its okay to feel that way. You may feel emotions that you are not familiar with, but it can also be a good experience once you begin to adapt to the changes. Perhaps a visit at your local cafe or library can be a good starting place.

3. Have Short but Frequent Study Intervals

We can only absorb and recount so much information for a certain period of time, but sometimes it might be harder to recall if we prolong ourselves to study in a shorter period of time. Shorter intervals (i.e. 40 minutes per subject) but is done more frequently can be beneficial for us. This can be done for a few days per week, and you can still achieve the same amount of study time that a longer study session but what is done in fewer days has. Studying for too long for one session can end up becoming stressful, as you’re not only tiring yourself out but you may start to question what information from your notes or textbook is the most important. It may even feel more stressful if you studied for too long as a last minute option.

4. Pick the Right Study Music

Rather than in silence, some students choose to have some background music play as they study. Background music can be beneficial who may not feel comfortable in studying in silence for so long. This can vary from songs with lyrics or songs that are filled with only instrumentals. Choices can range from some soft piano music to even your favorite pop song. Experimenting with the right sounds will determine which works best to help studying can be beneficial to motivate yourself. 

5. Stretch in Between Your Studying Sessions

Sitting down for a long period of time can make some of us feel immobilized. Some ways to help yourself stretch include stretching your arms out, moving your neck left and right, shoulder stretching across the chest, spinal twist while sitting, or even giving yourself a hug. Our bodies can feel stiff after a while and the more as we study, the more your body may feel tired. When we stretch our bodies in between study sessions, it is a good reminder for us to not neglect our physical health as we need to be physically present in order to complete our tasks. This can also apply to other obligations such as work outside of studying.

I hope today’s study tips will be of good use of you! Happy Studying!

Categories
Food & Beverage Social Media

Quick & Easy Breakfast Morning Routine

Both of these recipes taste so good and are a GO TO breakfast meal in the morning! Not only are they very filling, but you can also add in your protein powder to both the drink and waffles. You can completely customize these recipes to your own liking and preferences. There is nothing better like a refreshing fruit smoothie and oatmeal pancakes to get you energized and off to the beach, truly just a chef’s kiss combo! Make sure you check out the Instagram reel at the end to watch a step-by-step video. Hope you enjoy!

Protein Fruit Smoothie

Smoothie Ingredients

~Splash of milk of choice

~Yogurt of choice

~2 frozen bananas

~4 fresh strawberries

~1 scoop protein powder

~1 cup frozen fruit/berries

~Handful of spinach

*BLEND* and serve

Protein Fruit Smoothie

Protein Oatmeal Waffles

Waffle Ingredients

~1/2 cup oatmeal *blend* (or use oat flour)

~1/2 cup protein pancake mix *optional* (not used in this recipe)

~1 scoop protein powder

~2 eggs

~Splash of vanilla extract & cinnamon

~1 banana

*Now mix all together/ Or use a blender to mix ingredients together if you don’t want the texture of banana chunks in your waffles

Protein Oatmeal Waffle
Categories
Arts & Entertainment Business Local Business

The Moon’s Canvas: VC Students Art Business

The art shown above is the work of Sunimari Madrigal, a student at Ventura College. The art was made for her small business called The Moon’s Canvas. The art was made on a canvas about 13×9, made up of different art mediums such as paint, gouache, paint markers, and acrylic paint as well. The inspiration for this piece came from the beauty of the land we are lucky to have on Earth and also the beauty of the stars in the Universe.

Below is a video of her showing us how she created their piece.

Check out more of their work!!!

The moon’S Canvas instagram
Categories
Culture & Student Life

Register for the Summer and Fall 2023 Classes

Registrations for the Summer and Fall 2023 school year starts now! You are able to find the registration process in your student portal. Big thanks to Angelica Gonzales for showing us how to see when our registration appointments are. If you need help or have any questions concerning the registration process, please feel free to go to the counseling officer to get help from Angelica or any other counselors.

Student Services #  (805) 289-6420