It’s truly unfortunate to yet AGAIN learn of
educational budget cuts. What’s more
discerning is when this budget cut will threaten a vital and useful resource
that I use on a daily basis. I do fear
the repercussions that may follow and how it will affect my educational
future. The TRiO SSS program has
supported and guided me in many aspects of educational goals ensuring me a
positive outlook on my educational goals.
I have been able to utilize this amazing program in many ways. TRiO SSS, has offered me assistance to
effectively obtain my Associates Degree, utilize their “FREE” services, and be
an active member in my community.
First of all, I had always wanted a
college education. Due to my choices, I
lacked the ambition and desire to make this a reality. I have been out of an educational setting for
over twenty years. Furthermore, I was in
a treatment facility recovering from alcohol and substance abuse. While at this facility I was already enrolled
with Windward Community College and desired the willingness to attend. I had
many fears and anxieties upon entering this college and in all honesty, I
didn’t know where and how to begin.
Through word of mouth and action, I was lead to TRiO and that is where
all the POSSIBILITIES began for me. I
was able to engage with amazing counselors and peer mentors who not only gave
me needed advice and direction, they offered me self-confidence to believe that
I CAN DO THIS.
Being a mother of four, a wife,
actively recovering, and limited financially, I heavily rely on TRiO SSS for
many of their resources. I utilize their
free computer use and printing services.
Because I don’t own a computer at home, I am always at TRiO early morning
and in between classes to timely meet deadlines for class assignments. Because I am actively Full-time, their hours
of operation allow me to accomplish many required tasks. This summer, I will
take advantage of their summer math program which fortunately meets my
financial standards as “FREE”. Their
tutoring program, another blessing, has benefitted me. I have been out of school for numerous years
and reapplying myself back in has been challenging at times. I have utilized their services to help build
a weakness I had while I was in high school.
That was English. Based on my
COMPASS test scores, it proved I needed a lot of help. Fortunately, with TRiO’s patience and
dedication I am able to somewhat properly put together this story that will
hopefully show TRiO’s intent to serve students and guide them in their
educational direction.
Lastly, this wonderful program has
offered me many volunteer opportunities, which have helped me work towards
satisfying particular scholarship requirements.
Another positive outcome is that I get to be an active member in my
community and meet new and interesting people.
I have my children participate with me as well so they too gain an
understanding on what it means to “give back” to their community.
I truly hope the future of TRiO SSS will not be
compromised based on our Congressmen’s inability to agree on a budget. Furthermore a budget that could tamper with
the educational progress of many students, like myself here at Windward
Community College. May your choices
prove to benefit education?
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