Megan Ceragioli couldn’t afford a four-year university, so she went to MiraCosta College instead. She’s never regretted her choice.

 

“It’s been the best decision,” she said. “I’m saving money, and I’m getting a great education from the best teachers.”

 

Ceragioli was one of four MiraCosta College students who were selected as a semifinalist for the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke scholarship. The winners of the scholarship have their university education paid for three years.

 

Although she had a 3.8 grade point average at her high school, San Dieguito Academy, Ceragioli watched with envy as her friends were accepted at major universities nationwide. Her decision to attend MiraCosta College was cemented when she learned she would not have to pay any tuition fees because she was a full-time student eligible for the MiraCosta Promise Grant.

 

Ceragioli had heard good things about MiraCosta College but was initially nervous when she began attending in 2022. Her fears were soon dissipated.

 

“I really didn’t know what to expect. My teachers were so welcoming,” she said. “My English teacher, Adam Bishop, made it feel like home.”

 

Ceragioli is busy as she heads toward an associate degree in psychology when she graduates in May. In addition to her classes and studying, she works 20 hours a week as an assistant manager at a bakery and ice cream shop. She is also a member of Phi Theta Kappa, the community college honor society.

 

Ceragioli has availed herself of the many resources that MiraCosta College offers. She said her counselor helped her set up her classes and ensured she was on a path to graduation. While working on her essay as part of her university application, she got help from the writing center.

 

“MiraCosta has great transfer resources,” she said. “The writing center made sure I was writing about myself and my accomplishments. It was very beneficial.”

 

She particularly appreciated the mental health counseling she was able to obtain when she was troubled by her parents’ divorce.

“I was going through a hard time, and I needed that extra support,” she said. “It’s so nice to have somebody to talk to besides family.”

 

Ceragloli hopes to transfer to San Diego State University or the University of California at Irvine. Now, she doesn’t envy her friends who went to universities out of high school.

 

“I’m really grateful I chose this path,” she said. “My future self will be glad.”