What sort of obstacles have you faced in pursuing your education?

I’ve been through some rough times. It was hard when I was working two or three low-paying jobs, and it’s been worse since I started college. I’m only working part-time, while attending college full-time. I’m my only means of support, and the primary caretaker of my parents; I can’t really lean on them. I pay some of their bills. I used to pay them all, but not anymore -- I just can’t. People think family contributions are there, but the reality is you do the best that you can with what you’ve got.

My car has a tail light that has been broken for months, and now the transmission is going out. I don’t know how to resolve that. Either I get the tools that I need, or maintain transportation, stable living quarters and food.

I don’t look at difficulties as a sacrifice, but as investments in my college education. Viewing these barriers in that light helps me to keep my head up and move forward.

Do the students you talk to have similar stories?

I’m finding that many people are in situations similar to mine. I’ve heard a lot of disheartening stories from students – for example, moms who are trying to find proper child care and can’t.

Why are you excited about organizing students to be part of Student Advocates for Success (SAS)?

It’s an opportunity for me to ensure that other students get the same opportunity to attend college that I have been given. I receive financial aid, and I just know that without it I would not be able to attend college.

What have you been discovering in your work with community college students?

That despite all the barriers adult students face, they’re still very driven and determined. They’re just incredible people with incredible stories, doing everything they can to enhance their own lives -- not just for themselves, but for their families and communities. These are people who have the discipline, integrity, and hard-won experience that years in the workforce have solidified into stubborn forward movement. They just need the direction, the education, and the chance to build a better quality of life. They know a college education is the answer.

What reactions have you gotten from students?

Initially, surprise. Most adult students don’t realize how important their experiences are to the decision-making process. But most are very interested once they realize they have access to Women Employed’s expert staff, and feel far more comfortable knowing Women Employed is on their side. There’s enthusiasm and a sense of hope that this is something they can do effectively and quickly, without overburdening themselves in light of their already tight schedules. The level of action taken is up to the individual.

How has working as a student organizer affected you personally?

Facing my own difficulties, I feel stronger now that I know that there’s something I can do about my situation, and I get to pass on that information to other adult students. It’s brought me to another level of community service. That is fulfilling, because I get to see the weariness in the faces of students I meet transform into restored dignity and hope -- all because they know they are not alone, and that they can get connected to other advocates. I’ve been able to provide students with solutions that are doable. This experience has enlarged my territory and strengthened my abilities. I’ve learned that each one of us has a right, a responsibility, and the ability to make a difference.