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By Arleeny Escarcega
An inaugural Open House brought hundreds of prospective students from area high schools to Santa Ana College today, where they scattered across the campus, searching for potential majors and programs.
Information about educational programs, services and activities were available from booths and tables lining the quad. Representatives from about 37 programs and activities, ranging from accounting to finance to welding, filled the center of campus.
The community event drew entire families, including young children, high school students, and current SAC students.
Attendees ate from local food trucks, took guided tours of classrooms and departments, and snapped pictures with a SAC centennial birthday cake at the Social Media Spirit Hub.
Students also gathered at a Career Expo area near the library, where information was available about programs as traditional as English and Math and as specialized as automotive technology and biotechnology.
At times, the overflowing crowd seemed to overwhelm event organizers, who had not planned on such high number for an inaugural event.
“It’s the first time, so I think it encourages more people in the community to motivate their children to actually go to college, do something for their lives,” said Maggie Dominguez.
Locals also had the opportunity to connect with Santa Ana police officers and take pictures inside one of the patrol cars and SWAT truck. Those interested in criminal justice and law enforcement had the chance to speak with the criminal justice faculty.
“I had no idea it was going to be this big of a deal. I’m very impressed with everything that was done. Anytime we can get out there and interact with the community in a positive way is always a good thing,” said Josh Gripentrog, a Santa Ana SWAT officer.
