BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) \u2014 The College Corps program at California State University, Bakersfield is giving students the opportunity to earn money for school while serving their community, working with local organizations on issues like education, food insecurity, and environmental projects.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was a way for college to be more affordable, and it was a way to get hands-on experience outside of the classroom while at the same time being able to come to school. They know your schedule, so they are very flexible,\u201d Joy Mixion, one of the participants said. <\/p>\n
According to CSUB, Joy and about 80 other participants commit to 450 hours during the school year, gaining hands-on experience while supporting their community. In return, students can receive up to ten thousand dollars in stipends and education awards.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s just given me a lot of leadership skills and communication skills, and it\u2019s shown me the need for community support, building, and giving to your community,\u201d Richard McDowell said.<\/p>\n
Joy and Richard are in different parts of the College Corps program.<\/p>\n
Joy is working at Okihi White Wolf Wellness, where she tends to the native garden. As an ag business major, she says the program was the perfect first step in launching her career. \u201cI am now able to confidently say that I want to own my own farm and I have what it takes to do those things. I can do hard things, I can own my own farm in the future, and I know it\u2019s hard work, but I can do it,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Richard, a psychology major, is working at the edible garden at CSUB. There, he prepares for farm stands, learns about food insecurity, and mentors his peers. He even started his own experimental agriculture club, growing fruits and vegetables on campus. \u201cFresh fruits and stuff you can eat on the way to class or right after class, having a full belly is essential when you\u2019re trying to retain information,\u201d he said. <\/p>\n
Both Joy and Richard say they\u2019re grateful for the opportunity to get their hands dirty, build their careers, and gain confidence along the way.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re interested in joining, now is your chance. According to program officials, the they are accepting 100 new applicants, with applications due by June 1st.<\/p>\n