"I am currently a junior at CSU Channel Islands, majoring in Liberal Studies with a Teaching and Learning option. I plan to obtain my teaching credential and to become an elementary school teacher and behavior specialist right here in Ventura County.

I have overcome several hurdles to be where I am today in my education. I grew up the youngest of five children raised by only our father. Money has been scarce, so attending college has taken hard work, self-sacrifice and determination. I am the first and only child to go to college in my family.

I believe that children are our future and we need to do everything possible to ensure they get the best chance to succeed. I want to be a teacher to help make this possible. CSUCI is making my dream a reality."

Richelle Fullilove, Port Hueneme, CA

"My life has taken many turns over the years - some of them bad, but many of them good. Deciding to return to school at the age of 40 has been perhaps the biggest transformation thus far. At CSUCI I have appreciated the encouragement and support from all of my instructors as I've worked hard to achieve the highest academic standards that I can. I've been thrilled to see how my choice to go back to school has influenced my sons to pursue high standards of educational achievement as well.

Having our own public, 4-year university here in our own backyard means my sons will have the same chance I'm now enjoying."

Debra-lee Sawyer, Pt. Mugu, CA

"I am a 22-year-old senior majoring in Biotechnology at CSUCI, having transferred here from Moorpark College. My original plan for college was to attend San Diego State University, where I was accepted right out of high school. When family finances intervened, I decided to go to community college and transfer to a university after 2 years. When CSUCI opened it was a perfect opportunity for me to get a great education for a price I could afford. In fact, I was the first student to register for classes at CSUCI! CSUCI is tailored to my goals perfectly, with industry input into coursework, great professors, and small class size. It is clear to me that putting myself through school has been one of my best decisions.

I plan to begin work on a master's degree here at CSUCI as soon as the program becomes active and continue for my Ph.D. This will give me the education I need to work in research creating treatments and cures for disease."

Dev Chahil, Thousand Oaks, CA