March was a month of major moves for the Mariners, as Pacifica High School students traded their standard schedules for a deep dive into future possibilities. From high-energy festivals to elite military presentations, our campus and local community colleges provided a clear roadmap for life after graduation. Whether students were exploring creative career paths at Golden West College, getting a feel for the local atmosphere at Cypress College, or considering a prestigious path of service with West Point, the message was clear: your future is what you make it.
Goldchella (Golden West College)
For many Mariners, the trip to Huntington Beach for “Goldchella” was more than just a day away from the classroom—it was a turning point. Senior Justine Weatherby noted that the experience began with an exceptionally warm welcome from the Golden West staff, followed by a practical orientation in the campus theater that demystified the registration and account login process. The day moved from the logistical to the experiential as students toured the campus, getting an insider’s look at the bustling theater department and the hands-on cosmetology labs. After refueling with a TK Burger lunch provided by the college, students navigated a lively resource fair where campus clubs and departments handed out stickers and tote bags. The impact of the event was significant; for Weatherby, the immersive atmosphere was a game-changer.
Cypress College Visit
Complementing the excitement of Goldchella, the visit to Cypress College provided Mariners with a more personalized, structured look at academic planning and career pathways. Senior Brody Crawford highlighted the supportive atmosphere of the campus, noting that the college counselors were exceptionally welcoming and made students feel truly supported throughout the day. A major highlight for Crawford and his peers was the hands-on academic session, where they met directly with counselors to identify recommended classes and explore the specific course catalogs available. For those looking toward the future, the visit was a confidence booster; Crawford noted that Cypress felt like the perfect fit for his ambitions in law and law enforcement, particularly due to their robust Administration of Justice program. Between the informative sessions, the “cool” atmosphere of the campus coffee shop, and a hosted lunch that allowed students to network with new people, the trip successfully bridged the gap between high school life and professional goals.
West Point Seminar
Broadening the horizon for Mariners interested in leadership and service, the United States Military Academy at West Point held an impactful seminar in the Pacifica High School auditorium. Senior Shane Dao, who is also a prominent member of the school’s NJROTC, noted that the presentation featured a current West Point cadet who shared a firsthand perspective on the rigors and rewards of the academy. The session went beyond basic military training, emphasizing the holistic “scholar-leader-athlete” model by focusing on the importance of varsity athletics and campus involvement. According to Dao, a major takeaway was the sheer variety of post-military career paths available to graduates, ranging from law and medicine to high-level civilian relations. Students also learned about the incredible perks of being a cadet, including internships with S&P 500 companies and government agencies, as well as global study-abroad opportunities. For many, the highlight was hearing the cadet’s personal journey of securing a prestigious Congressional nomination, which provided a clear—if challenging—roadmap for Mariners aiming for one of the most selective institutions in the country.
Whether students found their spark at the “Goldchella” festival, mapped out their academic future at Cypress, or felt the call to leadership with West Point, March was a month that proved there is no single “right” way to be a Mariner after graduation. These events offered more than just free lunch and stickers; they provided the clarity and confidence needed to navigate the daunting transition into adulthood. As we move into the final stretch of the school year, the halls of Pacifica are filled with a renewed sense of purpose. Whether your next step takes you to a local campus or a national academy, the opportunities explored this month have ensured that every student is ready to set sail toward their own version of success.
