“CSM gave me an opportunity to turn things around. Now I’m here, studying what I love, and looking forward to the future.“

Born and raised in the Bay Area to a Brazilian family, psychology major Maryanna Oliveira is a first-generation student at College of San Mateo (CSM). After graduating from nearby Hillsdale High School, she is in her second year at CSM, charting a path toward transferring to UC Davis. Her journey is a testament to her dedication and the supportive community she’s found at CSM, made possible by the San Mateo County Community College District’s (SMCCCD) Free College initiative.

Her journey to CSM began unexpectedly during a college fair at her high school. Intrigued by the opportunities presented at the CSM table, she delved deeper, exploring the college’s offerings through social media and website. However, like many prospective students, Maryanna grappled with the daunting costs of higher education. “At first, I didn’t even know if I was going to be able to go to college because of all the financial cost,” she recalls. “College can get expensive.”

The introduction of the Free College initiative by SMCCCD transformed her prospects. This program waives enrollment fees and provides additional financial support for qualifying San Mateo County residents, effectively removing the economic barriers often hindering students from pursuing higher education. For Maryanna, this meant the difference between setting aside her academic aspirations and actively chasing her dreams. “CSM gave me an opportunity to turn that around,” she says with gratitude. “Now I’m actually here at school, studying, and it’s helped me a lot.”

While Maryanna’s primary focus is Psychology, a field she is passionate about because it explores the human mind and behavior, she hasn’t limited herself to courses within her major. Perhaps surprisingly, her favorite class is a songwriting course in the College’s Music department. “It doesn’t really have anything to do with my major, but it’s something that I like to do in my free time,” she explains. This class has allowed her to express herself creatively, which is essential to keeping herself feeling balanced with her full load of courses.

With plans to transfer to UC Davis, Maryanna is focused on the future. She envisions a career where she can make a meaningful impact in psychology, possibly working with youth or in community settings. The foundation she’s building at CSM is a critical step toward these goals. “I’m excited about what’s ahead,” she says enthusiastically. “CSM has prepared me well for the next chapter.”

Maryanna is a strong advocate for CSM and encourages others to consider the College as a stepping stone toward their own dreams. “Just know that this is a great place for you to be,” she advises prospective students. “We have an amazing community here. Everybody is really nice.”

She emphasizes that the Free College initiative is more than just financial aid—it’s an opportunity to change one’s trajectory. “If not for free college, I might not be here,” Maryanna reflects. “It has impacted my life in a very good way.”

Maryanna’s story is a powerful example of how access to education can transform lives. With the support of SMCCCD’s Free College enrollment fee waiver and CSM’s student services, she has overcome financial obstacles, explored her passions, and set her sights on a promising future. Her journey underscores the importance of making higher education accessible to all and inspires others facing similar challenges.

Hear more from Maryanna in this video.

After meeting her husband and immigrating to the United States, Vairea wanted to return to her studies so that she could start a business of her own. Like many older students, her studies started and stopped due to family obligations. She began her studies in 2019 when she learned about Skyline College from her husband. After pausing her education to have a second child, she restarted in 2021. Majoring in Business Management, Vairea will graduate in 2025. Because college was free for Vairea, she could return to school, learn English (her native languages are Tahitian and French), and be supported by the Skyline College community.

In Vairea Samn’s words, “The sky’s the limit.” If not for free college, Vairea would not have been able to return to college. She would have had to work full-time to help support her sons. Although getting started was difficult for her, her first obstacle to overcome was learning to read and write English. Today, Vairea is incredibly proud of her accomplishments. As part of the Federal Work-Study program, Vairea works in Skyline College’s Outreach Department. She beams with pride when she talks about how she is the person who gives students presentations about Skyline College. She talks about how other students can have a journey similar to hers. “Skyline College welcomes all with open arms. I have taken advantage of Skyline College’s programs, including financial aid, EOPS, Promise, and Outreach. Free College not only helped with tuition but also helped with books, computers, and other resources.”

After graduating from Skyline College next year, Vairea Samn dreams of creating a business to help people understand the Tahitian culture. She wants her sons to know where she has come from and extend that cultural understanding to all.

Hear more from Vairea in this video.