Long Beach City College’s International End-of-Year Celebration was more than an event — it was a beautiful reminder of what makes the LBCC international student community so special.

The evening celebrated scholarship recipients, graduates, student leaders, staff, and the incredible students who continue to make LBCC a welcoming place for people from around the world.

During the celebration, we had the opportunity to hear from three international students — Ilham from Malaysia, James from Vietnam, and Nathalia from Brazil — whose stories reflect the heart of the LBCC experience: community, support, opportunity, and belonging.

James from Vietnam: Feeling Heard, Supported, and at Home

James, a Business student from Vietnam, chose Long Beach City College because LBCC was the first school to respond to him — and more importantly, they took the time to support him.

From the beginning, James said LBCC made him feel heard and like he belonged. He described the college as very supportive and the community as open. For him, LBCC became a place where he never felt lost or lonely because the people around him were friendly and welcoming.

James shared that his professors have been amazing and that LBCC gave him a lot of support throughout his study abroad journey. He specifically mentioned Dr. Nina Richardson and Nelly Delgado, who provided him with resources, guidance, and helpful information about American life. Their support made a real difference in his experience as an international student.

James is also the President of the International Student Club, where he has been able to make friends, help build an amazing community, and plan events for international students. Through the club, he has created memories that made LBCC feel even more like home.

One of the things James appreciates most is that when he came to LBCC, people did not look at him differently. He felt accepted by professors, staff, and students alike.

For James, LBCC is his second home — and when asked if he would recommend it, his answer was clear: “A million percent.”

Nathalia from Brazil: Taking Her Shot and Creating Opportunities

Nathalia, a Medical Assisting student from Brazil and LBCC’s valedictorian, shared a powerful message about courage, connection, and not letting fear get in the way.

When asked what she loves most about LBCC, Nathalia said that besides the beautiful campus, it is the people who make the college so special. She described the people at LBCC as family — a community where students can find friends, build connections, and receive the support they need to succeed academically, professionally, and personally.

Nathalia shared that the professors and classmates at LBCC are very supportive. She also emphasized that LBCC offers many opportunities and that the support students receive can make a real difference in their lives.

One of those opportunities was her internship in Public Health, which she connected with through LBCC President Mike Muñoz and Dr. Nina Richardson. Nathalia said that when students commit, work hard, and build connections, they can create opportunities for themselves.

She also helped start the International Student Club after COVID because she realized that many international students were experiencing similar challenges. She wanted to bring students together, help one another, and make the international student journey a little easier.

Her advice to other students is inspiring: do not let fear stop you.

Nathalia shared that fear is often what holds people back — fear that something will not work out, or fear that they might fail. But her message is to take your shot anyway.

When asked if she recommends LBCC, Nathalia said yes. She shared that LBCC is truly about the message, “You belong here.” At LBCC, students can find their people, their community, and resources that support them academically, professionally, and personally.

Ilham from Malaysia: Finding a Friendly and Supportive Community

Ilham, an international student from Malaysia studying Hospitality Management, shared that one of the things that stands out most about Long Beach City College is its diversity.

For Ilham, LBCC is not only one of the most affordable schools, but also a place where students can feel welcomed. He described the campus as diverse, friendly, and easy to get around. He also shared that he has met many people at LBCC and that the students, professors, and staff have made his experience positive.

Ilham especially appreciates how flexible and supportive the professors are. He also noted that mental health is important at LBCC and that students have access to many resources to help them succeed.

When asked about his favorite spot on campus, Ilham said the International Student Program office is his go-to place. He described it as relaxing — a space where students can enjoy drinks and snacks, meet new friends, and feel connected.

His advice to other students is simple but helpful: stay organized. Ilham uses reminders on his phone to manage his time and keep track of his tasks.

Through Ilham’s experience, future students can see that LBCC is a place where they can find support, make friends, and feel part of a diverse community.

A Place Where International Students Belong

The stories of Ilham, James, and Nathalia show that Long Beach City College is more than a place to study. It is a place where international students can feel supported, make meaningful connections, grow as leaders, and create memories that last beyond the classroom.

From the International Student Program office to student clubs, supportive professors, campus resources, internships, and community celebrations, LBCC gives students opportunities to feel seen, heard, and valued.

The International End-of-Year Celebration captured what so many students experience at LBCC: friendship, achievement, support, and belonging.

For international students looking for a college where they can grow, connect, and feel at home, Long Beach City College offers a community where they truly belong.

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