Nicola Perissinotto discovered her passion for sociology at Santa Barbara City College. She took a class titled Social Issues with Dr. Obrien, which turned out to be her favorite class.
“I knew from that point what I wanted to study going forward, and what my career path would be,” said Nicola. “I didn’t even know about sociology as a subject before taking that class.” Now an undergraduate at UC Santa Cruz, she is majoring in sociology and plans to pursue social work after earning her degree, helping people who are most in need.
Nicola feels fortunate for having grown up in Santa Barbara, and for attending high school and college here. She was part of the SBCC Promise, which covers all tuition, fees, books, and supplies for two years, for all recent, local high school graduates. She earned her associate degree in liberal arts and sciences with an emphasis in social and behavioral sciences.
“The SBCC Promise made it affordable for me to complete my general education requirements before transferring to UCSC,” said Nicola. “And SBCC was an amazing educational opportunity. It helped me find my passion and provided the tools and resources to pursue my education and a career.”
The outstanding academic counseling on campus was another important part of Nicola’s experience at SBCC. “My academic counselor, Marisol Cota, was amazing. She is so kind, helpful, and reassuring. Every semester she helps students organize their classes to fulfill requirements.” Nicola also received her IGETC, which satisfies the lower-division general education requirements at any UC or Cal State campus.
“The entire SBCC academic counseling staff is very helpful and friendly. It’s a great team to have in your corner.”