Learning to Make a Difference

Booker Burnett's Butte College Journey

Like many students, Booker Burnett began college unsure of exactly what he wanted to do. What he did know was that Butte College offered opportunities to explore different paths while building toward a future career.

Initially interested in the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program, Burnett eventually found his calling in public health. In May of 2026, Burnett graduated with a degree in public health science and plans to transfer to California State University, Long Beach, where he will pursue a degree in public health with a concentration in community health education.

Burnett's interest in the medical field stems from a desire to serve others.

“I really wanted to give back,” he said. “I was given the gift of being able to get an education and get an education for free, and I wanted to help as many people as I could with that privilege of getting an education.”

Through classes in microbiology, biology, and health sciences, Burnett discovered a field that combined science, problem-solving, and service to the community. More importantly, he discovered confidence in himself. Homeschooled for most of high school, Burnett admitted that adjusting to college life was challenging at first.

“I think finding my footing, finding a friend group, was something that was a little bit difficult for me at the start,” he said.

That began to change after he took a job on campus as an orientation student assistant in the Welcome Center. The experience helped him form friendships, connect with mentors, and step outside of his comfort zone.

As a self-proclaimed introvert, Burnette remembers a moment, during a karaoke celebration with fellow student assistants near the end of a semester, where it became especially clear how much his college experience had affected his confidence.

“It was that point I just kind of realized how much of a transformative experience college has been for me,” he said. “I feel like [Butte College] has really helped me get out of my shell and really become someone who wants to lead.”

Now, Burnett hopes other students who may feel uncertain about their future understand they do not need to have everything figured out before starting college.

“The college is a very supportive environment,” he said. “I think that was something that really drove me here.”