I am a 43 year old, non-traditional student working toward an associate degree in nursing at Bladen Community College. I took college preparatory classes in high school. After high school graduation, I applied and was accepted to several universities. However, I let life get in my way and making a living became a priority over my education. Many years later after my two amazing children were born, I decided to continue my education.

I attended the fall 2010 registration at Bladen Community College just to ask a few questions about the possibility of attending college. I met with a counselor and within the hour, I was enrolled in classes with a promissory note for a Pell grant, and I began classes the very next day. I had doubts about returning to school, but Bladen Community College gave me the opportunity to achieve my dream. There is never a dull moment and sometimes I get very little sleep; however, I would not trade a minute of it. Thanks to the encouragement of my instructors and counselors, I plan to pursue my bachelor’s degree as well.

“No one ever said it would be easy, but it will be worth it." (Unknown)