Student Spotlight: Adaeze Onwuka

By El Camino College September 22, 2021 Torrance, CA

Biology major transfers to UCLA

When Adaeze Onwuka first started at El Camino College, she found that the transition into college life became easier with a little help from friends. Finding a support system early on was a key to her success.

"The main thing that is so good about El Camino College is the people," she said. "I don't think I could have done it without my teachers, counselors and friends. I wasn't alone. I had support and friendship."

Onwuka graduated this past spring and transferred to UCLA, where she is continuing her studies in biology. She feels prepared for university work and says that ECC was great place to start her college education.

"I really benefitted from the personalized attention that I gained from my professors," she said. "It was nice to be in a class with a small amount of students. I got to know the people around me and that made the learning process much easier."

Onwuka also joined the Honors Transfer Program at ECC and was able to present her research this past spring at the 18th Annual Honors Transfer Council of California (HTCC) Student Research Conference for California Community Colleges at UC Irvine. Her poster won an award, one of several earned at the state conference by El Camino College, which secured about 10 percent of the awards given.

"I loved that while presenting at the HTCC conference I was able to enthusiastically share my knowledge," Onwuka said. "Aside from the research and communication skills that I gained through this experience, I'm thankful to the HTP for challenging me academically, connecting me with a strong community and molding me into a successful transfer applicant."

She was also a member of MESA, where she had the opportunity to further her studies while also connecting with fellow students and faculty who helped her see that her goals are attainable.

"I feel confident in myself. I learned study habits and how to be prepared," Onwuka added. "I had counselors to help me and push me to reach my goals. I'm ready for more."