I attended CCV in 2014 as a single parent with a dream of pursuing a degree in Environmental Science. About a year into my degree, I realized I needed unpaid internships to make a career of it, which I couldn’t commit to as a young single mother. Through extracurricular classes, I realized I was really good at business and decided to switch my major.
Despite the challenges, I completed an associate’s degree in Administrative Management in 2018. It took me 4 years to get that degree, but I was so proud! I vowed, though, to never forget my true passion: the environment and all the natural resources it provides. When I learned that VTSU in Johnson offered a Bachelor’s in Wildlife and Forest Conservation, I decided now was the time to return.
My child is older, and thanks to my degree at CCV, I have a stable job and a stable place to live. I work full-time, I am a single parent, and I attend VTSU part-time, but I know it’s worth the effort. My advice is to never give up on your dreams, no matter how long it takes. It may take you longer than some to get there, but don’t give up! You owe it to yourself to follow your passion and do something that will make you proud.