Rising Scholars

What is Rising Scholars? 

In 2008, Santa Barbara City College launched the Rising Scholars Program (formerly known as the Transitions Program) to provide formerly incarcerated students with the opportunity to enroll and receive the tools necessary to succeed at SBCC. Our goal is to create a smooth transition to higher education for students who have experienced the criminal justice system. 

How to apply?

  1. Apply to SBCC by visiting: www.sbcc.edu/apply
  2. Complete the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
  3. Complete the 2021-2022 California College Promise Grant
  4. Contact Noel Gomez, Coordinator, Rising Scholars Program: gomezn@sbcc.edu

Student Responsibility  

  • Students must meet with Rising Scholars Academic Counselor once per semester (See contact info below).
  • Rising Scholars students must attend at least one program event once per semester
    • (Ex: Partcipating in a workshop or informational session).
 

Rising Scholars Program Benefits & Resources

  • Academic Counseling
  • FAFSA and Tuition/Fee Waiver Assistance
  • Support Group Sessions
  • Tutoring
  • Record Expungement
  • CSU & UC Campus Visits
  • Laptop & Wi-Fi Hotspots
  • Application and Enrollment Assitance
  • Book Grants & Supplies
  • On-campus Meal Plans
  • Educational Courses at SB County Jail
  • Career Counseling
  • Semester Personal Development 100 Course
  • Educational Workshops
  • Caps and Gowns

Interested? Questions?

To find out more about Rising Scholars and the application process, please contact:
Noel Gomez, Rising Scholars Program Coordinator
gomezn@sbcc.edu
(805) 892-3653

If you have questions about classes, specific majors, certificate programs , transfer plans, or SBCC requirements please contact:
Ana Garcia, Rising Scholars Academic Counselor
aggarcia10@pipeline.sbcc.edu
(805) 730-4093

Transitions picture
Berto & Daniel's Grad Pic