Tiffany Arellano

Tiffany Arellano is a 2023 graduate who simultaneously earned both an associate degree from Compton College and a high school diploma from Compton Early College High School. With two years of college completed, Arellano transferred last fall to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) to major in political science and sociology with a concentration in Chicano studies. 

After graduating from UCLA, she plans to attend law school and earn her Juris Doctor degree. Arellano is thankful for the resources Compton College offered her to help her transfer to a top UC campus. “Without Compton College and its amazing faculty, I wouldn’t have had the solid educational foundation to aid me as I transferred to UCLA,” she said.

“I want to become an immigration lawyer and start up my own law firm where I can serve underrepresented populations, such as residents of my hometown of Compton, California,” said Arellano. “In the future, I hope that I can advance to a level in my career where I can grant free legal services to those in need.”

Originally uncertain of her career goals, Arellano credits the countless student resources offered by Compton College with “changing her life and helping her hone her passions.” She was honored as one of Compton College’s 2023 Presidential Scholars—students who have shown academic strength, singular focus, and the desire to reach their highest potential while overcoming obstacles in the pursuit of their dreams.

 As a dual-enrolled student, Arellano felt she had an advantage by being able to experience college classes while still in high school. “Juggling advanced high school classes with college-level courses not only instilled in me the value of productivity but also strengthened my mindset and allowed me to flourish as a more consistent and well-rounded student.” 

She encourages students considering Compton Early College to enroll in this benchmark program developed in a partnership between Compton College and the Compton Unified School District. “Although it may sound intimidating at first, the staff at both Compton Early College High School and Compton College make sure you receive all the resources you need and have a genuine interest in ensuring your success.”