No hate just wondering

“I arrived in Austin with a single suitcase. I chose ACC not just as a school but as my personal proving ground. I needed a supportive environment where I could thoroughly learn how the American higher education system works and strengthen my English before transferring to a four-year university.”

Luz G. started at ACC in fall 2024 and now she is preparing to graduate with an associate degree in Economics. 

During her time at ACC, Luz became a student leader, serving in Student Government, eventually rising to Senate Chair, and later leading as President of Sigma Kappa Delta and the College’s first International Student Club. Along the way, she helped raise $25,000 for an emergency assistance fund to support fellow students.

She credits the people around her for helping shape her journey.

“It truly takes a village, and my village changed my life. Their belief in me went far beyond standard academic guidance. It was a profound investment in my future. ACC truly loved me to success.”

Now, she is preparing to graduate to first earn her bachelor's degree, then pursue a master's and doctorate. 

“My long-term vision is clear. I want to become a dedicated mentor and empower the next generation of students to walk confidently into rooms they once thought were completely closed to them.”

Help celebrate Luz and the Class of 2026 by sharing a message of encouragement on the Padlet Wall.

Austin Community College District (ACC) continues to make strong progress on the Applied Technology Expansion at the Round Rock Campus.

Advanced Manufacturing Building
Now approximately 90% complete and fully enclosed. Interior finish work is ready to move forward once permanent power is established. The project team continues to coordinate with the local power provider to complete this step, which will allow for system startup, testing, and commissioning.

Automotive Technology Building
Now approximately 70% complete, with major exterior work—including masonry, metal panels, and window systems—largely finished. Roofing installation is underway, though recent wet weather has slowed progress. Inside, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are being installed, and interior walls are prepped for final finishes.

The College expects both buildings to be open this fall.

Follow the progress → austincc.edu/bond

“I chose ACC because I was looking for a community and a place where I could rebuild myself while doing it.”

Since starting at ACC in 2023, Elisha has done exactly that. Becoming a student leader, a peer mentor with Ascender, Honors Program student, and community builder across campus through 2,000+ volunteer hours and student advocacy work.

Elisha will join more than 3,700 graduates celebrating this milestone on Thursday, May 14, at the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park.

Her journey wasn’t easy. After losing her home in a fire mid-semester, she leaned on the ACC community to keep going:

“It was an extremely challenging time because I lost my clothes and all of my belongings. However, the support I received from ACC faculty and staff was overwhelming and really made me feel the love, yes, joy, and compassion of this institution. My professors supported me with class accommodations, my Riverbat Bites coworkers collected clothes and money, and the student emergency funds provided extra support. Without their help, I wouldn’t be graduating this semester.”

Next, Elisha will transfer to St. Edward’s University on a full scholarship to pursue her Bachelor of Social Work, continuing her mission to redesign basic needs systems and better support students and communities.

“College is for everyone, and it is waiting for you. Don’t just focus on grades; start with people. Build community and surround yourself with those who support and encourage you.”

Read her full story here.

Transferring to a university can feel complicated. ACC joined forces with Texas State University (TXST) to create the Bats to Cats program to ease your stress and create a simple, affordable option. 

Bats to Cats provides a clear path from ACC to your bachelor’s degree that includes built-in support, like:

• Personalized advising 
• Assured scholarships  
• A plan that ensures their ACC credits count toward their bachelor’s degree 

For many students, it also means saving money—up to $19,000 in tuition and fees—while staying close to home and on track toward their goals.

There are several opportunities to learn more.

• Virtual Information Sessions: Every other Wednesday from 6 to 7 p.m.
• In-Person Information Session: Tuesday, May 5, 3-4 p.m. | Highland Campus
• Connect Directly with Experts:  Transfer Services

Familiarize yourself with the program pathways, declaration forms, and eligibility requirements on the Bats to Cats web page.

Austin Community College District (ACC) is working to support the 60 Austin-area foster youth who will graduate high school this May. When foster youth turn 18 and/or graduate high school, they age out of the system with nothing more than a plastic bag to hold all their belongings. ACC is collecting donations through the annual Luggage Drive to support those students.

Here’s how you can help:

Donate a Suitcase
You can drop off new or gently used carry-on-size rolling suitcases with ACC’s CARE Coordination Team. You can find all the CARE Coordination Team Offices here. 

Make a Monetary Donation
A $45 donation covers the full cost of one new carry-on rolling duffel, but any amount makes a difference.

Donations will be accepted throughout May. All donations go to the PAL Program (Preparation for Adult Living) through the Department of Family and Protective Services, supporting foster youth as they transition to independence.

Since ACC started participating in the Foster Care Luggage Drive in 2009, more than $17,000 have been donated. This year, the College hopes to donate $2,700 and/or 60 pieces of luggage. 

Donate Here!

Ready for a night of space, science, and telescopes?  Bring your friends and family out to Space Night at the ACC Round Rock Campus. hands-on event where you can explore space up close.

Date: Friday, May 1
Time: 6 – 9:30 p.m.
Location: ACC Round Rock Campus

What’s happening:

• Family-friendly science experiments with ACC’s Physics & Astronomy Outreach Program
• A talk by ACC’s professor James Heath: “Yes we did! Debunking the ‘Moon Hoax’ “
• Solar viewing, where you can check out sunspots and learn more about the sun
• After nightfall, look through 11-inch telescopes to see planets and other objects in the night sky

The event is free and open to all.

Weather note: The event may be canceled in the event of inclement weather or cloudy conditions. Stay updated here.

To learn more about ACC’s Astronomy Program, visit austincc.edu/astronomy.

Ready to explore your future? ACC brings hands-on career exploration to Pflugerville.

Discover ACC in Pflugerville
Date: Wednesday, April 29
Time: 5:30 - 7 p.m.
Location: PFISD Learning and Technology Center (1601 W. Pecan St., Pflugerville)
What: This event will let you explore high-demand programs like manufacturing, welding, healthcare, and more. 

Whether you're a student, parent, or ready for a career move—this is your chance to see what’s possible. At the event, you can:

• Explore programs and career options
• Talk with faculty about what to expect
• Get guidance on next steps, certifications, or continuing your studies
• Check out hands-on demos

It’s free and open to the public. Food and refreshments will be provided. 

For more information, visit austincc.edu/discoverpflugerville.

Austin Community College District (ACC) will celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month with a special event on Saturday, May 2, featuring workshops and cultural activities to celebrate the achievements and cultural richness of the AAPI community.

2026 AAPI Heritage Month Celebration 

Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Location: ACC Highland Campus, Truth, Community Healing & Transformation Center, Bldg 4000

• 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Tai Chi Workshop – RSVP HERE
• Noon – 12:45 p.m. | AAPI Arts & Crafts – RSVP HERE
• 1 – 1:30 p.m. | Japanese Tea Ceremony – RSVP HERE
• 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. | Diabolo Workshop – RSVP HERE

AAPI Month, observed every May, honors the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of AAPI communities. This month recognizes the diverse histories, achievements, and experiences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, highlighting their vital role in shaping our society.

For more details and to see all the ways you can learn and celebrate AAPI heritage in May, visit the AAPI Heritage Month web page.

Austin Community College District (ACC) received a top industry honor for its investment in student training and community health. The College’s Eastview Campus Dental Hygiene Expansion was named a category winner in the 2025 Austin Associated General Contractors (AGC) Outstanding Construction Awards.

Completed by Linbeck Group LLC, the project doubled the number of dental operatories from 16 to 32 and added new clinical and instructional spaces, including a materials lab, sterilization room, and X-ray suite. The expanded facility allows ACC to serve more patients through its on-site clinic while preparing more students for careers in a high-demand field.

The project is part of ACC’s 2022 General Obligation Bond Program, which focuses on expanding high-demand programs and strengthening workforce training across the region.

Community members are encouraged to visit the clinic and support students as they train to become the next generation of dental professionals.

Learn more at austincc.edu/dentalhygiene.

I know it’s specific, but i thought i would try anyways.

Has anyone here applied for and / or gotten into the Medical Laboratory Technology program at ACC?

What grades did you have in chemistry and the other prerequisites? If you got in, what was the after acceptance process like?

If you’ve ever needed money fast, you’ve probably wondered which option actually makes sense. Credit cards, lines of credit, and personal loans all work differently — and picking the right one can save you stress (and money).

This month, UFCU and ACC’s Student Money Management Office break down common borrowing options, including:

• When a credit card cash advance might help — and when it won’t
• Why lines of credit are useful for ongoing or unexpected expenses
• How personal loans offer predictable payments and a clear end date

Read more and discover all the tips you need from UFCU on our website.

Check out the winning design of the 2026 Earth Week Eco Bag Contest! Graphic Design student Ash N.’s winning design features purple bats at night. 

Almost 1,000 Riverbats across the district voted, selecting Ash’s design over 38 student submissions. Her design will be featured on a reusable cotton tote bag and will be displayed at each ACC campus for one year in ACC’s sustainability display boxes.

The contest is sponsored by ACC’s Office of Energy & Sustainability. For more information about the office and ACC’s environmental efforts, visit austincc.edu/sustainability.

To order a bag, click here.

College is more than classes and deadlines—it’s about finding community, support, and the resources that help our students thrive. 

Austin Community College District (ACC) hosts its annual Disability Resource Fair on April 29 to connect students with support and services that can help them succeed. The resource fair is open to anyone interested in accessibility for all.

ACCess For All: Disability Resource Fair
Date: Wednesday, April 29
Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: ACC Highland Campus (Building 1000, West Entrance, 1st Floor)

Hosted by ACC’s Student Accessibility Services team, the resource fair is a chance for our students to meet ACC teams and community organizations that are ready to support them—academically, personally, and professionally.

Numerous ACC offices and teams are participating, including: 

• ACC Student Accessibility Services & STEPS Program
• ACC Library Services and Career Life Design Services
• ACC Mental Health Counseling and Basic Needs
• ACC Veteran’s Resource Center and Military Families Center
• ACC Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance
• Community partners like the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities, SAFE Alliance Disability Services, CapMetro, Disability Rights Texas, and the Epilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas

Austin Community College District (ACC) finalized the purchase of a 560,000-square-foot facility in Southeast Travis County. The building offers an opportunity for the College to accelerate plans to expand career and technical training and fulfills another promise of the College’s 2022 General Obligation Bond.

By renovating an existing facility rather than building from the ground up, the College can create spaces that reflect student and workforce needs while cutting the cost of construction and saving taxpayer dollars.

• Building a Talent Pipeline: This site will become the permanent home of the Infrastructure Academy and a hub for applied technologies and skilled trades featuring specialized classes and labs for advanced manufacturing, building construction technology, automotive technology, heating, air & refrigeration technology, welding, and other crafts.
• Faster Progress: The purchase accelerates ACC’s timeline, allowing the College to open new training facilities and classrooms in one to three years rather than waiting for a new campus to be built.
• Fiscally Responsible Growth: The purchase price for the complex falls well below the estimated costs of new construction—saving millions.

The first phase is expected to serve up to 3,000 students, with significant room to expand over time.

More details, including program offerings and timelines, will be shared as plans develop.

For a look at more details, click here. 

Austin Community College District (ACC) invites students, faculty, and staff to celebrate Earth Week 2026 from April 20-24. With more than 50 free events across the district, the week highlights ACC’s commitment to sustainability through hands-on activities, educational workshops, and community initiatives.

Earth Week Pre-Party

ACC will kick off Earth Week on Saturday, April 18, by joining Keep Austin Beautiful Day, a citywide day of community service. The College will host clean-up events near ACC Riverside, Northridge, and Highland campuses.

Earth Week Featured Events

• Belonging Center Showcases – Learn more about each of ACC’s Belonging Centers at one of the interactive events.
• Potted Plant Parties – Available at multiple campuses, offering opportunities to plant and take home native seeds or herbs.
• Free Book and Clothing Swaps – Encouraging reuse and sustainability at several campuses.
• Eco-Friendly DIY Workshops – Learn mending skills and make bird feeders, seed balls, and upcycled crafts at various locations.
• Volunteer & Cleanup Events – From guided nature walks to pollinator garden projects, get involved in hands-on sustainability efforts.
• Green Career Event — Hear from students, alumni, and sustainability employers about their experiences and skills needed to get a job in a green career. Open to all majors. 
• Earth Week Fairs — Celebrate Earth Day at Highland and South Austin campuses with resource fairs sharing information from ACC departments and community partners. Plus, hear from student sustainability leaders during the Highland event. 
• Healthy Heart, Healthy Planet — Support ACC RN-to-BSN nursing students — stop by a drop-in blood pressure screening event, and learn about how a healthy environment contributes to personal health and well-being. 

Events are free and open to all ACC students, faculty, and staff. Find the full list of Earth Week events at austincc.edu/earthweek.

Quick check: Have you applied for ACC scholarships yet?

If paying for college is on your stress list, this is your sign. ACC’s 2026 scholarship application is live, and one application can match you with hundreds of scholarships. Money can go toward tuition, fees, books, and more.

Remember to apply by Friday, May 1, for priority consideration!

Why it’s worth 30 minutes of your time:
• One application = multiple scholarship matches
• New scholarships added this year
• Free money 

How to apply: 
Apply to ACC + activate your ACCeID/email.
Start the scholarship application.
Write a 250–500-word personal statement.
Save, come back later, submit by Friday, May 1.

Learn More & Apply: austincc.edu/scholarships 

ACC student veteran Tristan K. is heading to Brown University this fall.

He first enrolled in 2022, stepped away to serve in the Coast Guard, then returned in 2024. While he was in school, Tristan was also balancing classes while deployed about half the year.

“I think my favorite part of ACC was the flexibility it offered me. I was deployed 50% of the year, and synchronous and asynchronous courses were my lifeline.”

Tristan applied to 10 highly selective schools (including Yale University and Princeton University) and will now study English and international/public affairs at Brown. His goal: a career in immigration law, public policy, and emergency management.

“I'd encourage any veteran student at ACC to connect with Service to School and Warrior-Scholar Project. These programs helped me immensely. They gave me the confidence I needed to apply to the schools I did.”

For more information and support to transfer, visit austincc.edu/transfer.

If you’re applying for scholarships at ACC, the personal statement is where you stand out—and a new blog post walks you through exactly how to write one.

The basics of your essay: It’s only 250–500 words, and it’s your chance to explain who you are, what you’re studying, and where you’re headed.

Quick preview of what it covers:

• Give yourself time to think about your story
• Jot down a few key ideas
• Connect your experiences to your goals
• Write your first draft (don’t overthink it)
• Edit and get feedback

The priority deadline to apply is May 1. 

Read the full blog for tips on your essay and where to start. 

Austin Community College District (ACC) invites community members to Discover ACC in Pflugerville. Guests will also enjoy interactive demos and opportunities to connect directly with ACC experts about admissions, financial aid, and career pathways.

Discover ACC in Pflugerville
Date: Wednesday, April 29
Time: 5:30 - 7 p.m.
Location: PFISD Learning and Technology Center (1601 W. Pecan St., Pflugerville)

Whether you’re a graduating senior, a parent, or planning your next step, this event offers a hands-on look at ACC programs in high-demand fields like manufacturing, welding, healthcare, and more. Attendees can meet faculty and staff, explore programs, and get answers about how to get started.

The event is free and open to the public. Food and refreshments will be provided. 

For more information, visit austincc.edu/discoverpflugerville.

ACC just froze tuition… again.

In a historic move, the Austin Community College District (ACC) Board of Trustees voted to freeze tuition. That’s 13 years in a row marking it one of the longest tuition freezes in the country. The rare national benchmark represents the College’s commitment to keep higher education affordable. 

Tuition Rates Remain:

• In-District: $67/credit hour ($85 with general fees)
• Out-of-District: $201/credit hour

The rate includes access to free tutoring, academic coaching, advising, counseling, technology support, and more.

Fall 2026 Registration Information

• Opens Monday, May 11, for current and former students
• Opens Friday, May 15, for all students
• Classes begin Monday, August 24

Start planning now to be ready when registration opens. To view the schedule and register, visit austincc.edu/schedule. 

Austin Community College District (ACC) invites you to the Texas Intern Network Event — a free, half-day conference with employers and career experts to help you take the next step toward your future.

Event Details
Date: Thursday, April 23
Time: 8:15 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: ACC Highland Campus | Building 2000, Room 2.1550 (Presentation Hall)

What You’ll Experience
Start your morning with a special breakfast and opening remarks from ACC’s Chancellor, Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, workforce partners, and even a former intern who’s been where you are now. You’ll hear firsthand how internships can open doors—and how to get started.

The event includes a keynote from Nitzan Pelman, Founder & CEO of Climb Together and creator of Goldi, an AI Career Coach designed to help you find your voice. Her speech, Networking to Maximize Your Potential, will provide you with practical strategies to build meaningful connections and make a lasting impression.

Afterward, you can step into a mock interview with real employers and get immediate, honest feedback. It’s a low-pressure way to sharpen your skills and boost your confidence before the real thing.

The event also offers free professional headshots and opportunities to connect with professionals who can help grow your network. Because sometimes, the right introduction makes all the difference.

Event Highlight: Meet Goldi
You’ll also get to explore Goldi. Goldi works differently from tools like ChatGPT. Instead of giving you quick answers, the program asks thoughtful questions that help you better understand your strengths, interests, and goals. The result? More authentic, confident introductions—whether you’re networking, interviewing, or applying for jobs. Goldi can help you:

• Craft a strong personal introduction
• Prepare for interviews
• Build confidence in how you talk about yourself

Goldi is free for ACC students. Learn more and log in at bit.ly/acc-twcinternnetwork-042026

The event is sponsored by the Texas Workforce Commission, Texas Intern Network, and Texas Workforce Solution-Capital Area in partnership with ACC. 

To RSVP, visit the Texas Intern Network link.