Lauren’s Story
Class of 2024
When Lauren first embarked on her journey at Oak Valley College, she did so because no other school stood out to her in the same way. Unsure of what career path she wanted to pursue, she recognized that a business degree would provide a versatile foundation for a wide range of professional opportunities. Drawn to Oak Valley College’s Christian values and its commitment to putting those principles into practice, her confidence was reinforced by the genuine character of the people she met. Combined with an accelerated program and affordable tuition, Oak Valley College quickly proved to be the perfect place for her to grow.
Initially, Lauren felt skeptical about the year-round academic schedule, worrying about missing out on traditional summer breaks with friends and facing potential burnout. However, she was pleasantly surprised by how naturally she adapted, finding it easy to stay focused on her studies throughout the year. She came to deeply appreciate the shorter, more frequent breaks every couple of months, which offered well-timed opportunities to rest, recharge, and maintain her balance.
What truly enriched Lauren's college experience was her cohort, which quickly grew into a close-knit group of friends. Although they primarily connected on campus, her classmates became an invaluable support system throughout her academic journey. Navigating similar challenges created a deep sense of unity—whether helping one another with homework, studying for exams, or sharing well-needed laughter over the demands of a tough class. Lauren cherished having a community that understood her journey and actively contributed to her success.
Having graduated two years ago, Lauren has stepped confidently into her post-college path, using her foundational skills to pursue a meaningful career supporting elementary school students with special needs. Though she continues to discover all that the future holds, her business education at Oak Valley has anchored her with the confidence, flexibility, and faith to make a lasting impact wherever she serves.
