Story and Photo by Arlette Valdivia, Staff Writer
Transferring students at Cypress College submitted their applications last fall, and as acceptances have rolled out, many are now making their college commitments as Cypress College’s 2025 Commencement nears.
Among the graduates, Studio Arts major Ayila Rashid committed to California State University, Fullerton, and will be majoring in graphic design.
During her time at Cypress, Rashid experienced academic and personal growth. The transition to a college campus brought her new challenges and opportunities after experiencing a hybrid high school career.
Rashid was initially nervous about adapting to a new social environment. However, she said that Cypress helped her meet and interact with her peers and professors in person, participate in class discussions, and access campus resources that she did not have before.
One resource that helped Rashid grow was the Federal Work-Study program, which allows undergraduate students work on campus to earn money for educational expenses.
“I’ve been able to get experience in a job and be able to come to school,” said Rashid. She’s worked at the Financial Aid Office for 10 months and continues to have an enjoyable experience.
Her favorite course at Cypress was the ceramics classes: “I have always wanted to take ceramics. When I found out that Cypress offered ceramics, I really wanted to take it,” said Rashid.
Another memorable moment was when her artwork was displayed in the student art gallery. One of her art professors encouraged her to submit her work for consideration: “It was a pencil drawing of the street of San Francisco,” she said.
Rashid shared that she is nervous but excited about transferring, but hopes she’ll feel just as welcomed at Cal State Fullerton as she did at Cypress College.
