“While I originally planned to study biochemistry at SBCC, a course in early childhood development taught by Helen (‘Winkie’) Cooper changed the path of my education and career,” Charles Cook said when asked about his favorite classes at Santa Barbara City College. “I pivoted and got an associate degree in Early Childhood Education in spring 2024, as well as an associate child care teaching certificate.”
Charles speaks highly of his professors at SBCC. “They sharpened my learning skills and cultivated excellence in their students through helpful feedback and expert guidance. Kathy King, Jessica Self, and Devona Hawkins all challenged me, and cared a lot about my success.”
Since he still had an interest in biochemistry, Charles also took a lot of science classes at SBCC. He reports that Dr. Maupin and Professor Barron made science fun, encouraging students to get out in the field in addition to memorizing anatomy and plant structures. He also says he owes his “A” in statistics to the amazing staff at the Math Tutorial Lab on campus, and much of his academic success to the counselors who were there when he needed them.
“I feel fortunate to have attended SBCC, and also incredibly honored to have received a scholarship from the Montecito Rotary Club in partnership with the SBCC Foundation,” he said. “I was nominated by the department chair of the Early Childhood Education program, Professor Devona Hawkins. The funding not only helped with my university tuition, but it provided encouragement and a belief in the importance of my work that motivates me to this day.”
Attending SBCC was part of Charles’s long-term plan to go to a four-year university. He’s now pursuing his bachelor’s degree from UC Santa Cruz, and plans to earn a graduate degree in social work and eventually work as a children’s therapist. Thanks to his SBCC education, he has a solid foundation to pursue his goals.