Student Spotlight - John Yeager

What did you study at EvCC?

I studied Journalism and media communications at EvCC and was the editor-in-chief of the school’s student news organization, The Clipper. 

Why did you choose EvCC?

I chose EvCC because it’s close to home and has solid pathways to four year programs. 

EvCC's student media organization, The Clipper, has been around since 1941. Why do you think The Clipper continues to be important to EvCC students? 

I think The Clipper adds a unique element to EvCC’s campus. We really strive to give our readership an honest look at EvCC from the eyes of students. 

What was the biggest challenge you faced as a first-generation college student? How did you handle it? 

My mom completed some college but I’m the first out of my family to complete any form of a degree. The biggest challenge was probably not knowing what to expect in regard to a college workload and living on my own. My two years at EvCC was my first real taste of what life as an adult looks like, and I learned a lot of valuable lessons. 

As a member of the Stillaguamish Tribe, what support did you receive for your education? How did it help? 

My tribe is really good about providing tribal members with opportunities that set us up for success. Not only did they pay for my college, but they also offer a lot of services in their education department to help along the way. I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunities they’ve given me. 

Who helped you succeed at EvCC? (faculty member, staff). What did that person do to help you?

Journalism instructor Andrew Wahl has not only been a mentor to me, but also a friend. From the start of my first journalism class with Andrew, I knew I had an advisor that cares deeply about journalism, and one that cares for his students even more. He is the epitome of an engaging instructor.

What advice do you have for new EvCC students?

Have some pride in your school. As far as community colleges go, EvCC isn’t a bad place to earn your 2-year degree. And never think you’re getting less of an education because you ended up at a community college instead of a university. You’ll get as much out of EvCC as you put into it. 

What do you plan to do next? (Job, transfer, etc.)

I’ll be attending WSU-Everett in the fall to study strategic communications. Past that, I hope to one day work as a community manager for a Triple A video game studio and also continue to stream on Twitch under the handle YeagerrBomb.

Describe the best experience you had at EvCC.

There was nothing more motivating and rewarding than helping staff writers through their stories and seeing their faces light up when they pitched a story that was important to them.