Then and Now

When I graduated high school, I was already a mom and working as a CNA with plans to become a nurse. I could have gone to a four-year school, but I just felt like I fit in more at SLCC. Plus, I was able to get childcare on campus, and the class schedule was flexible so I could continue working.

My dad, who is from Ghana, raised my sisters and I to prioritize education. He said, 'No one can take that away from you.' Neither of my parents had gone to college.

When I came to SLCC I had plenty of drive and loved learning, but I lacked confidence. I knew there was this judgment from others that as a Black, single, teen mom, I wouldn't excel. I wanted to show I could be more than a stereotype and help myself and my son move beyond where we were at.

At SLCC my mentors saw something in me that I didn't see; they really inspired me to change my trajectory. From SLCC, I became a McNair Scholar at Westminster College and went on to earn a master's and PhD in public health. Now, I'm a health equity postdoctoral researcher at the U of U School of Medicine.

"I wanted to show I could be more than a stereotype and help myself and my son move beyond where we were at."

Advice

You are your best investment. And SLCC is a cost-effective way to invest in yourself even if it is just one class at a time. It is okay if your path is not the same as others. Find mentors at work, or school or in your family. Talk to people in your dream field. Ask: How did you do it? What would you do differently? What brings you joy at work? People like to share.