Tag: ventura college

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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/

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Food & Beverage Food & Dining Local Business Spotlight Uncategorized

A Local Spot Built on Family and Flavor

Ozeki Noodle, located on Esplanade Drive in Oxnard, is more than just a restaurant. It is a family-rooted business that has become a familiar part of the community over the years. Although the owner does not know the exact year it opened, they believe the restaurant began sometime in the late 1990s or early 2000s.

According to the owner, family was the original reason for opening the restaurant. That family-centered beginning still shapes Ozeki Noodle today. More than just a place to eat, the restaurant offers a welcoming environment built on tradition, connection, and service.

When asked about the restaurant’s signature dish, the owner pointed to “Udon”. The dish stands out as a staple of the menu and reflects the comforting style of food the restaurant is known for.

The owner also shared that what they enjoy most about running Ozeki Noodle is the people. Serving customers and connecting with the community continues to be one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

That connection is clear in the experience of returning customers. One customer said, “I always come back for the spicy pork and for their great service.” Their comment highlights not only the restaurant’s food, but also the hospitality that keeps people coming back.

The owner also shared an older menu, showing that prices used to be much lower, a reminder of how much times have changed for small restaurants. Even so, Ozeki Noodle continues to stand out as a place that offers both quality food and a strong sense of community.

Ozeki Noodle shows how a family-driven restaurant can become a meaningful part of a city. With its signature udon, popular spicy pork, and strong customer service, it continues to offer Oxnard a place where food and community come together.

Ozeki Noodle | 349 W Esplanade Dr, Oxnard, CA 93036

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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Student Life at VC

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 

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community Student Life at VC

For Future Pirates

There is something special at Ventura College most may not know about. There is a learning opportunity for children between the ages of 2-5. The Orfalea Child development center is at the far west end of campus at Telegraph and West Campus Way. The emphasis of the center on STEM education has earned them the Golden Gear award in 2019.” The center is one of the top programs in the county”, states Deanna Hall a professor and co-chair of the center. She has been in education for 35 years. Students enrolled in the Early Education program earn their associate’s degrees while not only observing but actual hands-on experience working with the children at the center. 

The classes are small with a 1 to 10 ratio and the classrooms for the children aged 3,4 and 5 will never go over 20. The 2-year-old class has one teacher for every 6 children. The advanced students will serve as teachers’ aide alongside permanent highly qualified teachers employed by Ventura College. The school’s outside learning lab has a garden where children can not only plant and grow their own vegetables but fulfill their desire to play at the mud table. The center has a “jungle” of trees that provide opportunities to look for lady bugs in the grass and be young explorers. The outdoor area also has a constructed river with rocks and logs to play on. The sensory adventure continues with what else but a pirate ship to play on. 

The center has scholarships available for qualified students; more information can be found by visiting the center or emailing vcchilddev@vcccd.edu. The quality care is comparable to most child learning centers. The center is family focused as it encourages parents to participate in volunteering and hosts STEM Day events twice a year. The center has built the curriculum to ignite the children’s imagination and lay the foundation that will begin their educational journey. For more information on how you can take advantage of this program visit https://www.venturacollege.edu/departments/student-services/child-development-center

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Arts & Entertainment Podcasts

For Your Review – Future Stars Podcast

Listen Now

In this episode of the VC Social podcast, three friends, ⁠Raya⁠, ⁠Cristian⁠, and ⁠Devonte⁠, share music with each other, spotlighting artists with under 500,000 monthly listeners. From musicians in the community to musicians worldwide, there is so much undiscovered talent and, together, they are here to share it with you. Hopefully, you can find some new music and new favorite artists over the next 45 minutes.

Interested in the songs played? Here is the playlist, which is not in order of discussion, but it’s all there for your listening enjoyment!

If you want to see more from this trio, you can check out their socials!

⁠Raya’s Instagram⁠

⁠Cristian’s Instagram⁠

⁠Devonte’s Instagram

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Food & Beverage Student Life at VC

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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Student Life at VC

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.