What I’ve learned (so far)

April 18, 2025 | By Isabella Flores

When I first started my internship with the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC), I jumped right into the work. Joining incredible meetings, helping with projects, learning the ins and outs of the system. It wasn’t until I was asked to share an update with the State Board that...

Student voices matter

April 11, 2025 | By Khanh Pham

Two weeks ago, I had the opportunity of attending the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Catalyst conference in Kansas City, Mo., representing South Puget Sound Community College. As I reflect on the experience, I find myself deeply moved by the incredible group of student advocates I had the chance to meet a...

Behind the scenes of student success

April 4, 2025 | By Isabella Flores

A week ago, I sat in a room with the presidents of Washington’s community and technical colleges at the Washington Association of Community and Technical Colleges (WACTC) Board of Presidents meeting.

To next year’s legislative interns

March 28, 2025 | By Khanh Pham

As my internship at the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges begins comes to an end, I’ve been reflecting on what this experience has taught me. To next year’s legislative interns, I want to share a few things that I wish I knew going in; things that might help you make the most of th...

Education doesn’t expire

March 21, 2025 | By Isabella Flores

Education isn’t just about degrees or career advancement but about learning life lessons, passing down knowledge, and strengthening communities. That’s why Senate Bill 5110 is so important. It’s a step toward recognizing the wisdom and contributions of Tribal elders. Guaranteeing they even have t...

Breakfast with Sen. Hansen

March 14, 2025 | By Khanh Pham

Friday morning, two weeks ago, I was at the Washington Association of Community and Technical Colleges (WACTC) presidents’ meeting, balancing a plate of breakfast food, when I noticed an open seat next to Sen. Drew Hansen.

Higher education in uncertain times

March 7, 2025 | By Isabella Flores

Higher education is going through a lot of changes right now, and for students like me, it’s hard not to feel the impact. Costs are rising, financial aid policies are shifting, and access to education feels more uncertain.

The power of a proper introduction

February 28, 2025 | By Khanh Pham

As I continue my journey as a legislative intern for the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, I've come to appreciate something that might seem small but has proven incredibly valuable: the art of introduction.