Bakersfield College has opened a new campus in Arvin this spring semester. The Arvin Educational Center (AEC) is now open and enrolling students who are looking for a campus that is closer to home.
Isabel Castaneda is the program manager for the AEC. January marks her first full year as the program manager. Castaneda who has worked in multiple different rolls throughout her career at BC decided to become the program manager as she finds this roll the most rewarding.
“Assisting in the development of both students and the community is incredibly fulfilling. I have a lot of energy, and I believe there is no better way to use it than by serving the Arvin community,” said Castaneda.
One of the programs Castaneda is most excited about is the Hospitality Management Associate of Science Transfer (AST) program. This spring semester the Arvin Educational Center is currently providing general education courses along with Business Agriculture (ADT/COA), Nursing/Health, EMT (JSC), Introduction to Early Care and Education Certificate (NC), and many other programs.
“Many of our rural students find it very difficult to have reliable transportation, which may lead them to choose online classes or not attend college at all after high school. With the center now open, students can take classes in their hometown without worrying about transportation,” Castaneda said when asked what she thinks are the benefits of going to the campus in Arvin.
Professor Dr. Matthew Maddex has worked at Arvin High School for 2 years and is a communications professor has been looking forward to the opening of the new campus.
“I have been waiting anxiously for the AEC to open so that we can have our own space and can show Early College students what it is like to be on a college campus,” said Maddex.
In past years Maddex has noticed his students having issues with transportation and hopes with the new campus students are able to use bus routes.
Maddex hopes that the new campus expands on checking if students are having their needs met and having resources available.
The new campus in Arvin is open for all students and planning to expand for the upcoming summer and fall semesters.