Cooking Up Success at Long Beach City College: Aaron Ly’s Culinary Journey
For many students, stepping into college can feel like stepping into the unknown. That was the case for Aaron Ly, a Culinary Arts major at Long Beach City College (LBCC), who initially felt like a fish out of water. But thanks to the welcoming environment, supportive faculty, and abundant resources at LBCC, Aaron quickly found his place—and he wouldn’t have it any other way.
A Campus That Feels Like Home
What makes LBCC special? According to Aaron, it’s the people.
"I love LBCC because of the people—everyone is very welcoming," he says. "The counselors, the professors, my classmates—everyone is so easy to talk to. The professors truly care about their students, and the counselors are always there to help."
At LBCC, students aren’t just numbers. The faculty and staff go above and beyond to ensure that every student feels supported. Whether it's academic guidance, career planning, or personal support, the LBCC community is always ready to lend a helping hand.
Finding Friends, Community, and Support
Moving to a new place or starting college can sometimes feel lonely, especially for international students. But Aaron found that joining clubs at LBCC was a game-changer.
"Joining a club helped me make friends, build a sense of community, and meet people from all walks of life," he shares.
With a variety of student organizations and events, LBCC provides endless opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow. Clubs are a great way to explore interests, gain leadership skills, and most importantly—make lifelong friends.
Campus Life & Favorite Spots
One of Aaron’s favorite places on campus is the Student Union, where he loves to relax and socialize. And when he’s looking for a fun break between classes? He enjoys playing pool and hanging out with friends.
LBCC’s campus isn’t just a place for academics—it’s a place for students to unwind, engage, and enjoy their college experience to the fullest.
Resources That Make a Difference
Long Beach City College is committed to making education accessible and affordable. Aaron highlights some of the key resources that have helped him during his time at LBCC:
Affordable Food Options – LBCC’s mobile food truck offers budget-friendly meals for students on the go.
The Viking Vault – A free grocery resource for students, ensuring that no one has to worry about food insecurity while pursuing their education.
Supportive Counselors – Whether it’s academic planning, career advice, or personal development, LBCC’s counselors provide guidance every step of the way.
Advice for New Students
For anyone considering studying at LBCC—especially international students—Aaron has one piece of advice:
"Coming to the U.S. can feel lonely, but joining clubs at LBCC will solve that issue. You’ll meet amazing people, make friends, and become part of a community that supports you."
Why Choose Long Beach City College?
LBCC is more than just a college—it’s a community that cares. From its welcoming atmosphere to its vast resources, LBCC ensures that every student has the support they need to succeed. Whether you’re looking for affordable education, strong academic support, or a vibrant student life, LBCC has it all.
Aaron’s journey is just one of many success stories at Long Beach City College. If you’re looking for a place that values diversity, inclusion, and student success, LBCC is the perfect choice.
Are you ready to start your journey at LBCC? Join us and experience the difference!