Contrary to popular belief, being a college student does not guarantee leaving your hometown and escaping the responsibilities of adulthood. Students at Fresno City College are seldom participating in campus events because of constrictions such as jobs, transportation situations or family duties.
Given my four semesters attending Fresno City College I can confidently say that by 3:00 p.m., the campus turns into a ghost town. On my lucky days, I’ve come across approximately five students circling the main fountain whilst waiting for their ride.
However, the lack of student presence past in-session hours is because Fresno City College is a commuter school for the Central Valley. Unlike 4-year universities, there is no on-campus housing available at FCC.
Jacob McNay, a history major, originally planned on attending a college in West Hills before settling at FCC. Despite McNay acknowledging FCC’s abundant resources, like the Ram Pantry, which he has taken advantage of, he has not participated in a campus panel or conference.
“If I’m not at school, I’m at work,” McNay said while waiting for his ride. His schedule is limited because he does not drive himself.
The Ram Pantry, however, remains a popular resource utilized by many students because they are able to step in during their own downtime.
Although campus event starting times range between 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., they are also the most common hours part-time workers, like myself, and James Shelley who is enrolled in the FCC construction program, are busy.
Despite missing out on possible scholarship and networking opportunities, his college experience remains positive at FCC.
“I don’t think on it too much. I’ve got a stable job, so I’m happy,” Shelley said.
He’s seen multiple club rushes throughout his three semesters attending FCC and believes that the diversity on campus allows for enrolled students to feel welcomed and wanted.
Other students, like Abigail Burgos, an art major, choose to not become involved in extracurricular activities out of free will.
“I focus on just my classes and making sure that I complete them,” Burgos said.
