CAU is a club that formed at Rancho Cucamonga High School. They want to prepare students to be ready for what comes next in their future.
Students from all across campus gather together to research different jobs that they want to pursue later in the future. Students then help each other by finding the best path to be successful in that field, such as what the best colleges are, the highest salary, and how they achieve that salary. While diving into the different career paths, they also explore colleges and universities in the U.S and around the world.
Junior Rj Santiago, the vice president of the club, described why they created this club.
“The club started back as an idea last year in May, but was officially created in August,” Santiago said. “I decided to start this club with my friends because there was once a club during my freshman year named ‘First Step College Prep.’ It was very successful, but it ended up ending due to members probably getting busy. Me and my friends wanted to continue the legacy they had put on, of course with another name, which then created CAU.”
Since the club started, the club has visited one college and is hoping to plan to visit many more.
“We have visited CSFU (Cal State Fullerton), and we are looking to book trips with USC, UCLA, or even UCI in the future,” Santiago said.
Santiago shared how this club benefits him and many others.
“This club has allowed us to help prepare upcoming college students for new challenges they may face, and also allow them to explore different colleges and different career choices as well. The club has also allowed for us to give the opportunity to tour schools with students,” Santiago said.
As a club, you need to have people who are willing to join your club, and when you attract people to your club, you need to enlighten them about your club.
“Some advice I would recommend to a new member is to be curious. The whole purpose of this club is to explore different colleges, majors, and career paths. If you aren’t curious, you’re not able to keep new options by your side, so stay open-minded,” Santiago said.
RCHS Counselor Mr. Jose Marquez spoke about this club. He said he loves it when students come together to work toward their future. He said members of this club have come in to ask questions about their futures.
“The last two years, we’ve had less than 60 students come into our college application workshops. Considering our Class of 2026 is over 800 students, it is disheartening that so few ask for help,” Marquez said.
Mr. Marquez shared that many students don’t speak to counselors about their future. However, that is exactly what the counselors are here for.
“If I were a high school student, I think I would attend a few meetings and get a feel for what it’s all about. As a school counselor, I would be happy to attend Q&A sessions or add insight if requested,” Marquez said.
The club gives students valuable opportunities to explore colleges, careers, and future goals, helping them feel more prepared and confident about their life after high school. Through research, campus visits, and guidance from staff, members of this club are gaining experiences that can shape their paths for years to come.
