How Pulkita Jain Found Leadership, Community, and Academic Excellence at Santa Barbara City College
When Pulkita Jain left New Delhi, India, to study in the U.S., she wasn’t just looking for a top-tier education—she wanted a place where she could grow as a leader, challenge herself academically, and make an impact. She found all of that and more at Santa Barbara City College (SBCC).
Graduating with honors as an engineering major, Pulkita made the most of her time at SBCC, becoming the president of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society, chairing the Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics, and leading the Transfer Scholars Club. Off-campus, she also dedicated time to the American Red Cross and Direct Relief Corps to support community efforts.
Why Choose Santa Barbara City College?
Like many students, Pulkita found SBCC through a Google search of top community colleges in the U.S. The combination of stunning ocean views, a strong transfer program, and an engaged academic community made it an easy choice.
“I love everything about SBCC. The professors, the students, the environment—everything! SBCC has given me so much in just one year.”
As an international student, SBCC’s Transfer Center stood out the most. The dedicated counselors guided her every step of the way, making her transfer journey to a four-year university seamless.
Leadership & Growth at Phi Theta Kappa
Pulkita didn’t just join Phi Theta Kappa—she led it. She emailed the faculty directly, expressing her interest in taking on a leadership position, and showed up at every meeting, proving her commitment.
At PTK, she participated in service projects, from organizing beach cleanups to supporting health initiatives in South America. She learned the art of professional communication, listening, and debate—valuable skills that would serve her far beyond college.
The Honors Program: A Game-Changer
At first, Pulkita was nervous about applying for the SBCC Honors Program. She worried about the academic workload, but she quickly realized it was the best decision she had ever made.
✅ Personalized academic counseling – Honors students have direct access to a dedicated counselor who even called universities on her behalf. ✅ Challenging but rewarding courses – The professors truly care about students’ success, making them work for their grades in a way that encourages growth. ✅ A tight-knit community – The Honors Program helped Pulkita connect with like-minded peers who shared her passion for academics and leadership.
Looking Ahead: Transferring to Top Universities
With an outstanding academic record and leadership experience, Pulkita is setting her sights on top institutions. While UCLA and UC Berkeley are strong options, she’s also considering Stanford and USC for better scholarship opportunities.
“Private schools treat everyone equally when it comes to tuition, so they offer better scholarships for international students.”
Pulkita’s Advice to Future SBCC Students
1️⃣ Get involved – Whether it’s PTK, the Honors Program, or other student organizations, being active on campus boosts confidence and builds valuable skills.
2️⃣ Seek leadership roles – Don’t be afraid to ask for opportunities—sometimes, all it takes is an email to land a leadership position.
3️⃣ Take advantage of SBCC resources – The Transfer Center, writing labs, and academic counselors are there to help you succeed.
“SBCC gave me a platform to grow, learn, and lead. If you’re an international student looking for a place that will challenge and support you, SBCC is the perfect start.”
To learn more about Santa Barbara City College, click here.