Features Overview
CSU Monterey Bay Campus Trip
by Jessenia Varela Gomez
The CSUMB campus visit was a trip organized exclusively for members of the UC Merced Talent Search Program at Fresno High School, also known as TRIO. Students departed for this field trip at 6:40 AM and returned at 7:30 PM on Thursday, October 24. The journey included a stop at the Casa de Fruita rest area before we reached the campus. Upon arrival, students enjoyed a comprehensive tour that showcased the various offerings available. The tour included insights about the library and several buildings on campus. We learned about the programs taught in different facilities and had the chance to explore the library. Additionally, they visited the business building, notable for its glass structure and unique feature of communal showers.
The tour guide also took the group to the freshmen dormitory, where students viewed a mock freshman room and its layout. Following the campus tour, we attended a presentation about the university, which covered topics such as tuition costs, available majors, class sizes, and exciting opportunities for students. The Warriors were encouraged to ask any questions we had. There was a chance to dine at the campus cafeteria, where the food was excellent.
Before leaving, students spoke with a Fresno High School graduate and former TRIO participant now attending CSUMB. She shared her personal experiences on campus and provided valuable tips for the application process. The adventure continued with a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, where the group had three hours to explore at its own pace. Students marveled at the jellyfish, octopuses, and various fish species, with my favorite part being the “Under the Sea” exhibit, which allowed us to observe fish swimming around us in an underwater tank.
After the time at the aquarium, the travelers headed home, stopping at another rest area along the way. This visit and the aquarium trip were entirely free for students, funded by the TRIO program. This memorable trip marked the final event organized by UC Merced director Ms. Johnson. The program provides students with excellent opportunities to broaden their perspectives on college. Kaylie Elenes expressed, “TRIO has given me the opportunity to explore different college options, and without this program, I wouldn't have been able to fulfill my dream of experiencing the aquarium and discovering a college that interests me as much as CSUMB does.”
Reagan Library Tour
By Ian Owdom
On October 29, 2024, the Fresno High Senate and IB Diploma candidates toured the Reagan Presidential Library. Upon arrival, two Docents received them, and the tour began. Starting with statues and art pieces such as After the Ride statue, The Nancy Reagan statue, and the Sally Ride statue.
Next the tour went through the Terry Lanni Rose Garden replica before stopping at Reagan’s favorite plane “Air Force One.” The tour then proceeded through the Boeing airplane, down to the Air Force One mural. After a brief explanation from the docents, the tour went to see Reagan’s Motorcade, which included Reagan’s 1982 presidential parade limousine and three 1980s police vehicles donated and restored by the Los Angeles Police Historical Society.
The tour continued to the walk-through President Reagans life. Beginning with clothing and elementary work, the docents explained Reagans early life. Covering his high school time, he worked hard to join the football team despite his smaller stature. Afterwards delving into Reagans acting career, specifically “Code of The Secret Service,” which inspired Jerry Par to join the secret service, who saved Reagan after his assassination attempt. The library resembled a museum as the tour continued through Reagan’s presidency describing his part in the Cold War. Ultimately, the tour covered Nancy Reagan down to her China and clothing.
Ultimately the tour concluded at the souvenir gift shop, where people could buy jellybeans, jewelry, and clothing. Most students opted for the paper Declaration of Independence and Bill of Rights Replica’s. Daniel Gutierrez shared, “Although we couldn’t go see the library itself, still feel like I learned a lot.”