With the support of her family, Maricielo Mejia turned her dream of becoming a Titan into a reality when she accepted her offer of admission to study communicative disorders at Cal State Fullerton.
“It feels like I’m already taking the next step. It’s not a dream anymore. It’s real.”
The Mejia family was among approximately 3,500 admitted students and 6,000 guests who visited campus for the university’s signature Experience CSUF: Become a Titan event. Throughout the day, they toured the campus, met with faculty and staff, and learned about resources to support Mejia on her journey to earning a college degree.
Mejia said she chose Cal State Fullerton because of its reputation for hands-on training in the College of Communications. As a transfer student from Fullerton College, the No. 1 feeder school to Cal State Fullerton, she visited the campus several times and knew it was the perfect place for her as an aspiring speech-language pathologist.
“I’m looking forward to growing here, not just academically, but also as a person,” she said. “Being at Experience CSUF, I feel the community and the excitement all around. Cal State Fullerton feels like home.”
During the April 18 event, hundreds of students joined Mejia in accepting their conditional offers of admission at the Admissions Acceptance Center in Titan Gym, celebrating the official start of their college journeys with complimentary Titan gear and 360-degree photo booths.
“Experience CSUF is driven by intentional programming and strong campuswide collaboration designed to help students see themselves here and feel confident in their decision to commit to CSUF and become part of the Titan family,” said Kevin Martin, director of outreach, recruitment and orientation. “From the moment they arrive, we want students and their families to feel a sense of belonging, understand the resources available to them and leave knowing they have a strong support system to help them succeed at Cal State Fullerton.”
Additionally, Next Steps presentations provided students with guidance on the transition from acceptance to enrollment. Financial aid advisers reviewed award packages, scholarships, grants and other financial aid options to help students plan for the future. Family and friends attended bilingual sessions that provided tips to help them in their journey to becoming the best support system for their Titan student.
The excitement of the day carried over to the college resource fair, where faculty, staff and alumni representatives from each of the university’s eight academic colleges provided insights on unique programs, support resources and career development opportunities. The student organizations and clubs showcase encouraged students to get involved beyond the classroom and take advantage of CSUF’s vibrant campus life with more than 300 clubs and organizations.
Like many students, Mejia said her commitment to Cal State Fullerton isn’t just about her. It’s a big moment for her family.
“I’m so excited for her, and I’m really proud to see her starting here,” said Mejia’s younger sister, Marife. “I want to be like her one day.”