2025 March Issue of InMaricopa Magazine

EDUCATION

Bridging success From community college to university and beyond BY MAGGIE ALMQUIST

A S 2025 GAINS MOMENTUM, ARIZONA high school students are already looking toward the end of another school year. For many undecided high school juniors and seniors, an uncertain future about higher education lays ahead. While high school counselors guide university-bound students through applications and standardized tests, a significant number of Arizona students are still figuring out their next steps and fearful of heading down an uncertain path. “If you’re not sure which university you want to go to, starting at Central Arizona College is a great way to explore your interests and start setting goals,” said Nicole Costales, CAC’s director of advising. “Our professional advisors offer personalized assistance and

tuition, open admission and small class sizes. In addition to the personal touch provided by CAC’s enrollment advisors and academic success coaches who meet with students one- on-one, in-person or virtually, students are supported throughout their academic journey with ongoing offerings like Student Success Workshops, Transfer Tools and programs hosted by university partners looking to recruit motivated CAC students. “Our goal is the help anyone interested in pursuing an education find the program that meets their needs.” Costales continued. “I want students to know that the path to your dream job or degree is not always a straight line. You might have stops and starts and changes along the way. The most important thing is to keep going and ask for help along the way.” For students planning to enter the workforce right after high school, a four-year university might not be the right fit just yet. For students like this, CAC offers outstanding workforce training programs that provide real-world skills for in-demand careers. With nine areas of interest and industry-driven certificate programs — including Culinary Arts, Hotel & Restaurant Management, Automated Industrial Technology and Heavy Equipment Operation — CAC ensures students are job-ready upon graduation. Wherever students are on their academic journey, Central Arizona College is committed to helping students find their path and stay on the path to academic success. With programs for current high school students, first-time college students, returning students to life-long learners, CAC has programs for all types of students.

transfer resources that simplify the process of transitioning to ASU, NAU, UofA or other in- state or out-of-state universities.” As Pinal County’s community college, Central Arizona College is focused on serving students located within Pinal County and surrounding communities by offering affordable

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