For Carol Contreras, choosing Citrus College was about a smooth transition — but what she found was a launchpad. The first-generation, Monrovia-raised graduate is now headed to University of Southern California to pursue a legal studies degree, driven by a clear goal: becoming an immigration lawyer who keeps families together. 

Carol enrolled at Citrus College after graduating from Sierra Vista High School in 2022. The Monrovia resident chose a community college because she wanted her transition from high school to college to be smooth. "I thought it would help me get used to college while also saving money," she said.

Soon after joining the campus community, Carol became part of the college's honors transfer program. "It was the highlight of my academic experience," she said. "Getting to meet amazing students and instructors made my journey in education more exciting. It was great to have the opportunity to network and to be surrounded by students who were also aiming toward a degree."

Of course, Carol acknowledged that her time at Citrus College was not without its challenges. "I faced so many obstacles, especially since I'm a first-generation college student," she said. However, Carol received a lot of support from Citrus College faculty and staff. "The counselors were so helpful in guiding me throughout my time at the college," she said. "I will always remember our honors counselors Eric Samson and Eileen Sin. I will also remember Olivia Canales, the retired honors program staff member, who was an amazing and sweet mentor to me."

This fall, Carol will begin pursuing her bachelor's degree in legal studies from USC. Her ultimate goal is to apply to law schools and become a licensed attorney. "I would like to become an immigration lawyer and help families and individuals who are being separated," she said.