Finding Opportunity at LCCC

Ava Bortz | Writer

The class of '25 and '26 Honors Cohort taken by Jill Yapsuga.

The Honors Program at Lehigh Carbon Community College (LCCC) is filled with experiences and opportunities that students can take part in and benefit from throughout the semester, providing them with better transfer prospects and a lifelong community.

The program was started in 2004, and according to LCCC’s website, it offers “a full scholarship, rigorous coursework, small class size, preparation for transfer to selective colleges, and social and cultural activities.”

The program is ideal for first-year students who are looking for an accelerated two years at LCCC.

There are a variety of close transfer ties with universities in Pennsylvania, such as Kutztown, Lehigh, and the University of Pittsburgh. Students also have the opportunity to attend a Bucknell University summer program, which gives them a path to a Bucknell transfer. 

But transferring isn’t the only benefit of becoming an honors student. 

Students say that the program pushes them academically and personally. 

Second-year education major Gabriella de Jesus is one member of the Honors Program who’s benefiting from the variety of opportunities.

“I think it definitely challenged me as a thinker,” de Jesus said. “And to have a little bit more accountability for myself.” 

Students in the Honors Program are challenged to think critically and engage in discussion-based classes. However, the program can also reshape what students ideally expect for their college experience.

Kate Hopkins, a second-year psychology student, experienced this firsthand.

 “I think before, I definitely wanted the typical college experience, and being here has shown me that I don’t,” Hopkins said. 

Beyond the students, the faculty also plays a major role in the success of the Honors Program.

Co-facilitator Mary Engel, who has been part of the program since 2021, plays a key role in fostering a supportive community. 

“I would encourage anyone to try it,” said Engel. “Every student who leaves looks back and is incredibly glad they were a part of it.”

The Honors Program at LCCC offers students more than just challenging classes and an increased workload. It provides them with the ability to successfully transfer to a four-year institution while creating a close community of shared experiences and friendships.