FCC Begins with Record Breaking Enrollment | ABC30 Fresno

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By ABC30

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Fresno, Calif. "It's just hectic right now. Too many lines too many classes full," said sophomore Rickey Bass.

Standing room only in a history class meant the only seat for some students was on the floor. Like many Fresno City College classrooms, students are hoping a spot in overcrowded courses will open up.

"I'm wait-listed on a couple of my classes but I think I'm going to get in," said freshman Tyler Putnam.

"If there are students who have decided not to take that class there is a possibility of getting in; the possibility is not real strong," said Fresno City College President Cynthia Azari. She expects a total of 25,000 thousand students to enroll for the 2009-2010 Fall semester. That number is similar to last year's, however Azari said classes are filling up faster; and because of the economy, she said many students are enrolling in occupational programs.

"They are upgrading skills coming to the college after being laid off and enter into new careers," said Azari.

"I'm going back to school so I can be able to help kids in our community," said sophomore Saul Gonzalez.

At times throughout the first day, the line at the financial aid office stretched down the stairs. Students who were able to sign up for the classes will pay an extra $6-dollars per unit because of the tuition increase that kicked in this semester.

For students who cannot get all the classes they need this year, as long as they sign up for at least one class, they will have first priority over new students in the spring semester.