Success is in the eye of the beholder

At the same time that students are getting ready to transfer, receive their certificates, or graduate, some lawmakers are criticizing the leadership of California community colleges for falling short of fulfilling their state mandate.

According to some lawmakers, the graduation rate at the state’s 112 community colleges is too low.

This year, 616 students will be graduating from Citrus College, with 321 being awarded their AA degree and 295 receiving their AS degree.

They interpret these statistics to mean that Citrus College is not fulfilling its mission.
We disagree with the idea that in order to be considered a success at the community college level, a student must graduate with an AA or AS degree.

Although earning a two-year degree is a notable accomplishment, it is not the only student educational goal that should be factored into the definition of success.

Consider the vocational programs, which prepare thousands of students to enter the work force and become productive, tax-paying citizens. 

The automotive program at Citrus is so highly respected, that Toyota offers scholarships to many students every year to complete the program.

If a student completes a certificate program at Citrus College, then that student is successful, whether or not he or she has earned a degree. In the 08-09 academic year, 497 students received their certificate in a vocational program.

Consider the students who transfer to four-year institutions without having earned a degree. These students are often the most successful in achieving their bachelor’s degrees and beyond. In the 08-09 academic year 582 Citrus students transferred to California State Universities and 60 to Universities of California.

Many Citrus students are here to complete their general education requirements, a smart decision that can help them save money. Meanwhile, community college students can tackle a stressful question-what do you want to do with your life? Without wasting big money.

Just this year, three Citrus College students were accepted at the Columbia, an Ivy League school, so if that isn’t success then what is?

Many people from the community who are not here to earn degrees take advantage of rich programs that the college has to offer.

Consider the parent who takes a Spanish class while the kids are at school, or the retired cop who loves history and wants to learn more about World War II. They are not here to further their careers, but to learn. Their academic goal is enrichment.

These students should be categorized as successful. They are the lifelong learners who contribute to the betterment of society.

In 2004, voters in the Citrus Community College District passed Measure G, a local bond, which increased their property taxes in order to pay for the improvement of existing buildings as well as the construction of new facilities. By voting for Measure G, the community is affirming that Citrus College is doing its job and doing it well.

Congratulations to everyone who has accomplished their academic goals this year.

Congratulations to the transfer students, the degree recipients, vocational program completers, and the enrichment seekers. Your accomplishments make us, who are following in your footsteps, proud to be here.