Kathryn Sears
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) classes at Sacramento City College are known for being challenging, with weekly labs and heavy amounts of homework. While many students say the courses can feel overwhelming, the hands-on experience helps them get ready for their future careers.
Doug Copely, professor of astronomy and physics, agrees that transfer requirements for STEM students are rigorous, but worth the challenge.
“Usually when you hear about a student transferring from our college to a 4-year program, it’s about transfer agreements, pre-requisites and articulation,” Copley said. “These details are vital — no one wants to be surprised to find they’re not eligible to transfer — but other aspects of this path can be overlooked. Experiences, challenges, setbacks and successes can be found in every student’s story. In each you may hear excitement, possibilities, and, naturally, some anxiety. If you’re like me, you’ll also find inspiration.”
About 1,050 STEM students from City College transferred to either a University of California or California State University campus in the 2022-23 school year, which is the most recent data available.
Here the Express highlights a handful of those students who are close to ending their time at City College and heading off on their journey at a 4-year university.
Allen Godinez, a student at Sacramento City College attends the Physics 430 laboratory class on laser properties on March 11, 2026 on campus in Sacramento, Calif. Allen is a chemistry major and has been selected to participate in the UCLA Pre-Grad Training in Chemistry and Biochemistry Summer Research Scholars Program this summer.
(Express / Bob Fredenburg)
Kathryn is the main contributor to the quiz section of LaDailyGazette.com. If you have an idea for a quiz, let us know.