Pirate Pride in Full Force: PC Welcomes 300 Freshmen at Welcome Day

The energy on campus was electric as 300 incoming freshmen gathered in the Porterville College gym to start their journey into higher education at the annual PC Welcome Day event. Setting an encouraging tone for the 2026–2027 academic year, PC President Primavera Monarrez, ASPC President Farhaude Alrafi, and Jacob Sandoval, Student Life and Leadership Program Manager, officially welcomed the newest class of Pirates.

They highlighted the vast array of academic programs and student-first amenities available on campus, emphasizing that the entire PC faculty and staff are dedicated to supporting every student’s academic journey and personal growth.

Following the opening assembly, students kicked off self-guided campus tours, picking up stamps at key stops like the Library, Social Science building, and the Fine Arts and Video & Photography classrooms for a chance to win prizes.

Throughout the quad, attendees connected with Student Services booths and enjoyed fresh breakfast burritos and water provided by welcoming PC staff.

For many new students, the event offered a reassuring glimpse into college life. “This is a very helpful environment, and it is a big community for everybody,” said freshman Thalia Moreno, who attended with her friend Perla Zepeda, an aspiring police officer studying Criminology.

Recent dual-enrollment graduates Brooke Berry and Julieta Cerros, both studying Business Administration, appreciated the fresh start and collegiate flexibility. “It's great not having such a strict schedule as high school,” noted Cerros, while Berry added, “They offer a program specifically for our major, and it allows us to transfer pretty soon. So we are both excited.”

The day was also filled with inspiring advice from peers. Sayralisset Ibarra, interested in Civic Engagement, encouraged fellow students: “Don’t be afraid to reach out to the people that help you, and to not be afraid to achieve your dreams.” Her friend Daisy Cruz Corona, studying Public Safety, echoed the sentiment, urging incoming classmates to get involved, try new things, and join campus clubs.

Faculty members were equally thrilled to connect with the incoming class. Mauricio Vargas, PC’s new welding instructor, highlighted the hands-on opportunities within the Career Education division, which includes programs in Agribusiness, Wildlands Firefighting, Entrepreneurship, and Law and Public Safety. Incoming student Jeremiah Padilla shared his excitement to start welding classes with Vargas, noting his goal to craft wedding and engagement rings.

Meanwhile, STEM programs are seeing strong momentum. Math Professor Elliott Vest and Engineering Professor Paden Burgess assisted students with their fall schedules, noting rapid growth in Engineering—now serving 200 students—and rising interest in the new Computer Science pathway.

“It’s most important that students feel welcomed on campus, and they get more information on student services,” said Araceli Carranza, Student Services and EOPS Counselor. “Students don’t have to feel stress, and we are all here for their success.”

With strong support systems, dedicated mentors, and an enthusiastic new class, Porterville College is ready for another BIG year. Welcome to all of our newest Pirates!