When Angel left Thailand to continue her education in the United States, she wasn’t just searching for a school — she was searching for a feeling. A place where she could belong, grow creatively, make real friends, learn confidently, and feel accepted in a new country.

During her research, one name kept showing up, again and again: Portland Community College (PCC).

“It just clicked,” she said.

And from the moment she arrived on campus, she knew why.

A Place Where Creativity Can Grow

Angel is studying Multimedia, a field that blends art, storytelling, technology, and design — and PCC turned out to be the perfect environment to explore all of it.

She shared how small class sizes have made her feel more comfortable and more connected:

       “The class size is small, so it feels like friends — like classmates vibes.”

She loves that these smaller classes give her more time with professors who actually know her, guide her, and notice when she needs support.

       “You get more one-on-one moments with professors because it’s a small class.”

For a creative student, that kind of personal attention is everything — and it’s what helped Angel build confidence in her work, her ideas, and her future.

Figuring Out Her Future — With Support Every Step of the Way

Angel is planning to transfer to a four-year university after finishing her associate degree. And PCC has given her the tools and guidance to make that pathway clear.

She explains:

       “PCC has a lot of good services that can help you figure out what you want to do.”

From academic advisors to career counselors to transfer specialists, she never feels lost in the process. Instead, she feels supported — and excited about what comes next.

That’s exactly why so many international students see PCC as the best starting point for their U.S. education.

A Campus Full of Life, Energy, and Events

When Angel talks about PCC’s events, she can’t help but smile.

       “There are so many events happening… it’s hard to choose!”

Every week, students get to experience:
🎨 Creative workshops
🌏 Cultural celebrations
🎶 Music and art events
🍽️ Food festivals
🎮 Clubs and interest groups
🤝 Community meetups

She loves going to as many as she can — because events make it easy to meet people, make friends, and feel part of the campus community.

       “I love going. I love meeting people. It’s a good way to meet people and eat!”

For international students starting a new life in the U.S., these moments make PCC feel alive, joyful, and welcoming.

A Community That Welcomes You Exactly As You Are

When we asked Angel what she loves most about PCC, she didn’t hesitate:

       “The people. Everyone is very accepting and welcoming.”

In her story, she talks about how safe, comfortable, and included she felt almost immediately — something every international student hopes for when moving to a new country.

If she had to describe PCC in just one word?

She smiled and said:

       “Accepting.”

That one word captures exactly what makes PCC special.

Her Message to Future Students Around the World

Angel believes PCC is the ideal first step for any international student looking to study in the U.S.:

       “PCC is a great starting point. You have pathways — and it’s a lot more affordable.”

For students who want to:
✨ Discover new opportunities
✨ Explore creative interests
✨ Build confidence
✨ Make friends
✨ Attend fun weekly events
✨ Study in a welcoming and diverse environment
✨ Start at a college that truly supports you

— Angel wants you to know PCC is where all of that becomes possible.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Just like Angel from Thailand, your future can begin at PCC.

Questions? Need support?
📩 international@pcc.edu