Riverside City College UMOJA Students Embark on Transformative Northern California College Tour

Riverside City College (RCC) recently celebrated an unforgettable milestone for 21 of its UMOJA students, who participated in the Northern California UC/CSU College Tour from November 5–7, 2024. This extraordinary journey took the students to four prestigious universities: Sacramento State, UC Berkeley, San Francisco State University, and UC Davis, offering them an unparalleled opportunity to explore pathways to academic and personal success.

Far more than a traditional campus visit, this experience reinforced the importance of higher education, personal growth, and the exploration of diverse academic environments. Each stop provided students with valuable insights into the support systems and opportunities available for African American students at four-year institutions.

Highlights of the tour included:

• Sacramento State University: As California's first Black-Serving Institution, students learned about its groundbreaking initiatives to support Black student success.
• UC Berkeley: Renowned for its academic prestige and history of activism, Berkeley inspired students with its vibrant campus culture and dedication to innovation.
• San Francisco State University: Students immersed themselves in the dynamic energy of campus life, gaining exposure to a range of extracurricular and academic programs.
• UC Davis: With a focus on innovation and research, Davis showcased the endless possibilities for students pursuing excellence in diverse fields.

Throughout the tour, students engaged with faculty, staff, and current university students who shared their experiences and offered guidance on navigating the transfer process. They explored dorms, academic facilities, and learned about scholarship opportunities, fostering a sense of belonging in spaces of academic excellence.

“For many students from underrepresented communities, stepping onto these campuses dispels doubts about belonging and affirms their potential,” said Dr. Corey Timberlake, RCC’s UMOJA Counselor and Coordinator. “This tour has inspired our students to dream bigger and pursue their academic goals with renewed determination.”

The UMOJA program at RCC, dedicated to empowering and supporting Black students, exemplified its mission by connecting students with environments that celebrate their history, culture, and aspirations. The tour reinforced the importance of resilience, possibility, and the transformative power of exposure to higher education.

This trip marks a turning point for many of the participants, equipping them with the tools, inspiration, and confidence needed to excel in their educational journeys.