For many students, community college isn't Plan A. In this episode of Higher Ed Conversations, host Cheryl Broom sits down with GradComm interns Mariana Rosas and Alexis Cabrera to discuss their unexpected paths to community college and how those decisions ultimately opened doors they never anticipated. Mariana shares why she walked away from a four-year university after orientation, eventually finding a pathway that led her to UCLA. Alexis reflects on how changing plans led him from culinary school and out-of-state universities to community college, where he discovered opportunities that helped shape his future.

Together, they explore what these experiences reveal about how community colleges communicate their value and what institutions can do to help more students see community college as a first-choice option. From campus life and internships to high school outreach and social media, this conversation offers practical insights for higher education marketers looking to better connect with prospective students.

What You’ll Learn:

Why community college is often viewed as a backup option.
How affordability and flexibility can support students' long-term goals.
Why showcasing campus life, internships, and student experiences matters.
Why colleges can't assume students are learning enough about community college opportunities in high school.
How storytelling and visibility can help position community college as a first-choice option.

Thanks for listening!

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Higher Ed Conversations is hosted by Cheryl Broom, CEO of GradComm, a marketing and branding agency specializing in community colleges and public education.