In some ways, my college experience was very challenging. I had pretty much no support from my parents and lived largely with friends. I accepted a Track and Cross-Country scholarship so I could afford to go to college, but balancing school work and outside work with that definitely kept me on my toes. There were definitely times I was not convinced that I would finish college, but I kept at it with the help of friends. On the other hand, I loved it. I made a lot of friends at SRC who I am still in touch with today and enjoyed my time here. Lowell Aten, the history teacher during my time inspired me to work towards my Master’s Degree. After SRC, I went on to earn my B.A. and M.A. and eventually began to teach full time at SRC when Mr. Aten retired.
Although I went to SRC a long, long time ago, I feel many of the things that helped me be successful are still major strengths at SRC today. I believe both faculty and Student Services are good at helping students see what their options are after they leave SRC. There are many opportunities to explore what four-year universities can do to help further prospective student educational goals, or career opportunities after graduating from SRC. When it comes to First-Gen students, these can be crucial to help students feel more confident (and lower stress) when it is time to take that next step.