Student Spotlight - Jessica Steppe

Monroe High School junior Jessica Steppe is earning college credits for free at EvCC's East County Campus in Monroe. She's in the Running Start program, which provides tuition-free, college-level courses for high school juniors and seniors. Her credits count toward both her high school diploma and a college degree. In her third quarter at EvCC, the future biologist talked about why she chose Running Start at the East County Campus and her educational goals.

Why did you choose EvCC's East County Campus? 

For me, I picked East County Campus because it is close to home and has many wonderful classes that I needed for this year.  Many friends that were in Running Start before me have strongly suggested that I go to East County Campus. Not only does it have many awesome classes it has tons of great resources you would find at the main campus. I'm also taking a couple classes online. 

Why did you choose the Running Start program?

Ever since I was in 5th grade I had a dream of being a biologist. As I grew older I realized how expensive college is. In 7th grade a teacher told me about Running Start, and my whole life changed. The idea of being able to get a head start on college with 2 years free was an actual dream come true for me. Running Start isn’t just a head start on college for high school students but a head start for dreams to become a reality.

What are you studying at EvCC?

I am studying biology.

What advice do you have for new students? 

My advice for new students is to really take advantage of the resources the school provides. There is so many wonderful things the school can help you with. At East County Campus there are a lot of benefits you can get without even having to go to the main campus. For example there is a math tutor around who is willing to help, the office ladies are fantastic and can even get you a student ID, and you can even use the computer lab to study. There is so many resources that are available, and if you need help with anything there is always someone to ask!

What do you plan to do next?

After I get my associates degree in biology, my plan is to transfer to the University of Washington for aquatic fishery science.

Who has helped you succeed at EvCC and how? 

My professors at East County have always been super helpful. One of the biggest misconceptions you hear about college professors is that they are not that helpful. At East County Campus all my professors have done so much to reach out with me and my peers to make sure we have a full understanding. The office is also super helpful. When ever I have a question they are always available to answer and provide me with the information I need.

Describe the best experience you had at EvCC.

One of my favorite experiences at East County was during finals in the fall. In the Chill Spot there were lots of fun board games, and the office ladies brought us snacks, and we all got to relax after our finals and play games and eat. I found the experience really neat that the school provided that for us, and it was really cool to be able to meet other Running Start students.