When Yorrane arrived in Portland from Brazil, she didn’t just find a college, she found a community that made her feel supported, encouraged, and truly at home. Today, she’s studying Business and Marketing at Portland Community College (PCC) and says choosing PCC was one of the best decisions she’s ever made.

Her story reflects exactly what thousands of future international students hope to experience when they come to the United States:
✨ A welcoming environment
✨ Professors who care
✨ Real support systems
✨ Affordable tuition
✨ A diverse, global community
✨ Friends who become family

This is the PCC experience through her eyes.

A College That Feels Accessible and Affordable

One of the first things that drew Yorrane to PCC was the affordability. Compared to the high tuition at many U.S. colleges and universities, PCC offers a path that is financially realistic without sacrificing quality.

“I chose PCC because it was affordable,” she shared. “I also chose it because of the strong community for international students.”

For students who worry that the U.S. might be out of reach financially, PCC makes the dream possible.

A Community That Truly Takes Care of You

When she talks about PCC, the first word that comes up again and again is community.

From her first day, she felt supported by the Office of International Student Services — a team dedicated to guiding international students academically, personally, and socially.

“If you need food, you can get it at the pantry. If you need support, you get the support you need. And if you want community, you’ll find friends who hang out with you even outside of campus.”

For international students worried about being alone in a new country, she wants you to know:
“It’s really important to have a community — and PCC gives you that.”

Professors Who Notice, Support, and Lift You Up

Before coming to the U.S., many students feel nervous about English, especially vocabulary or communication.
Yorrane felt the same — but quickly realized she didn’t have to face it alone.

“The professors are very intuitive. They pay attention to you. When I was struggling with vocabulary or insecurity, they always helped me,” she said. “They also directed me to tutoring centers, and they were flexible and open to helping me succeed.”

At PCC:

• Every class is taught by professors — not teaching assistants.
   
• Small class sizes mean students get personal attention.
   
• Teachers truly want you to succeed, and you feel it.
   

This is the kind of support that builds confidence — the kind that changes your entire academic journey.

Diversity That Makes You Feel Seen

One of the things she loves most about PCC is how diverse and global the community is.
“There are people from all over the world. Everybody is really welcoming, open to making friends — it’s really awesome.”

PCC welcomes more than 350 international students from 65+ countries, creating a cultural experience that many students call “life-changing.”

You won’t just learn in the classroom — you’ll learn from your friends, your study groups, and the people you meet every day on campus.

A Beautiful Campus With Places to Call ‘Your Spot’

With four PCC campuses, students can explore different environments and find the one that feels right.

For Yorrane, that’s Cascade Campus.
“It’s my favorite campus. I love having lunch at Cascade. PCC is so beautiful.”

Portland’s greenery, creative neighborhoods, and peaceful environment make PCC the perfect place to study and enjoy life outside the classroom.

What She Loves Most About PCC

When asked what her favorite thing about PCC is, she doesn’t hesitate:

“The community. I made so many friends, and we hang out all the time.”

This is the part of PCC that changed her life — and the part she hopes other future students get to experience too.

Her Message to Future International Students

When we asked if she recommends PCC, she answered with a smile:
“Yes, definitely. PCC is the place to start. This is where you can build community. It’s affordable, it’s fun, and you’ll find everything you need.”

For students around the world dreaming of studying in the U.S., she wants you to know:
✨ You will be supported
✨ You will make friends
✨ You will grow
✨ You will succeed
✨ You will feel at home

Ready to Start Your Own PCC Journey?

If Yorrane’s story inspired you, PCC might be the perfect place for your own U.S. college experience.

If you have any questions, email us at international@pcc.edu Start your future at PCC today! 👉 Apply now!