Posted: August 12, 2023Written by: Ritchie Bermudez

SAN LUIS OBISPO – The fall semester begins Aug. 14 at Cuesta College. Students can find a comprehensive listing of classes on the class finder and register for courses at bit.ly/cuestaregistration through Aug. 27 with instructor approval.

“Whether you’re charting a course for educational achievement or aiming high in your career aspirations, Cuesta College is here to guide and support you every step of the way,” said Superintendent / President Dr. Jill Stearns. Providing more pathways toward academic and personal growth, comprehensive degrees and certificate offerings are available across the following areas of study: 

  • Business, Agriculture, Hospitality, and Legal
  • Creative Arts, Humanities, and Communication
  • Education and Information
  • English as a Second Language and Adult Education 
  • Health and Wellness
  • Skilled Trades and Technology
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences and Human Services
  • Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)

“I am fortunate to support a team of innovative and dedicated faculty and staff, providing our STEM students with valuable and unique experiences,” said Dr. Erin Naegle, Instructional Dean of STEM. Cuesta College’s commitment to real-world learning is evident in projects such as studying eelgrass populations in the Morro Bay estuary and wind tunnel collaborations with Cal Poly.

The fall semester marks a significant milestone as Cuesta College becomes a MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science, Achievement) campus funded by a $1.5 million state grant. MESA extends academic support, career guidance, and community-building for under-represented students in STEM fields, aligning with Cuesta College’s mission to empower all students on their educational journey.

“Our guiding question is: How can we better help students complete their educational goals, successfully transfer, and envision their future careers,” continued Dr. Naegle. “Ultimately, we strive to foster an educational environment where students deepen their sense of wonder and contribute significantly to their communities.”

The Creative Arts, Humanities, & Communication area is excited about the growth of the Commercial Music and Recording Arts Programs. Students revel in songwriting classes and private instrument lessons and receive hands-on experiences behind the controls of a 48-channel professional sound board or making mixes on an Ableton Live music station. Beginners, too, can unleash their musical potential, discovering a world of artistic expression in a voice or piano class.

“We take pride in our exceptional faculty, the top of their league in the Central Coast, who teach a wide range of instruments and vocal styles,” said Aubrey Kuan Roderick, Dean of Instruction for Creative Arts, Humanities, & Communication.

The fall semester also shines a spotlight on the visual arts, with art exhibitions at the Harold J. Miossi Art Gallery on the San Luis Obispo campus:

  • Molly Segal: August 31 – October 13, 2023
  • The Faculty Show: October 26 – December 8, 2023

For more details on these art exhibitions, please visit the gallery’s webpage or call (805) 546-3201.

New Cuesta College students are invited to attend Connect@Cuesta, a free event designed to help you find your place within the Cuesta College campus community. Join us on Tuesday, Aug. 29, at the San Luis Obispo campus and Thursday, Aug. 31, at the North County campus from 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.  Learn how to navigate the campuses, access academic and campus resources, and connect with fellow students, faculty, and staff. Connect@Cuesta For more information, please visit the website or email Student Life & Leadership at studentlife@cuesta.edu. 

Campus resources are available in person and online to ensure student success this fall semester. These support programs include Academic Counseling, Admissions & Registration, CalWorks and EOPS/CARE, Disability Support Programs & Services, Financial Aid, Student Health Services, Student Life & Leadership, and Tutoring Services.