Hood College Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Nathaniel

I would tell myself that life isn't as easy as you thought it was. That life isn't as much of a joke as you thought it would be. You're a smart kid, high school doesn't challenge you, your teacher don't like you, so of course they're not going to challenge you, bu you have to challenge yourself. Because you owe it to yourself to know all that you have potential to know to get to where you want to go. This isn't going to happen over night or be artificially inserted into your conscious. Just because many aspects of acedemics intrigues you doesn't give you an excuse to not narrow your options and specialize like everyone else, that's just the society you live in today. So get it done and take life seriously.

Jenalei

I have two beautiful daughters, I had my first daughter when I was 18, I dropped out of school and got my G.E.D, after I had her, I had my second daughter when I was 19, So if I was to go back in time to when i was a Senior I would tell my self to let my self grow first and finish my education before I had children. Because going to school to recieve a better education and trying to provide a living for me and my two daughters as a single mother gets pretty tough working a minimum wage job, and going to school. But they keep me going in a positive way. Because when I look into those most innocent eyes, I know that I have to do it for them. And I'am going to finish my education so that I can provide the life that my girls deserve. Thanks for your time on reading and I hope to recieve a scholarship.

Shane

Do not give up. I know that you've been in school for a long time, and it seems like college is just more of the same. And in a way it is, but it's worth it. I've been out there in the 'real world' trying to find a job I didn't loathe, and let me tell you, it's tough. If you want to have a career that you love, if you want a good salary, stick with it. It may take a few years before you really know what you want to do. Took me ten. But that's what required classes are for! In the end, all the hard work is going to be worth it. Your family and friends will be proud, but more importantly, you'll be proud of yourself.

Lilia

If I would go back in time as a senior and give myself advice about college I would tell to sign up for college as soon as possible the earlier the better, because you might not be able to sign up for the classes you want if you are too late. I would show up to class everyday. Showing up to class everyday will get you a better grade and also doing every single homework. Missing one homework can affect your grade quite much and missing one day of class will make you get behide in class, you would be totally lost. Do not get lazy it will affect your attendence in school and work. You will do so much better if you give it your all in college, it's a little hard but your hard work will pay off in the future and you will be so glad you did good.

Danielle

First of all, be excited! College will be an amazing time in your life. You will be a new person in college, and only in a better way! Shoot for your goals and make decisions based on your own wants and needs, no one elses. Do not wait until the last minute to start figuring out your next step in life. Look at colleges early and apply early, because you will know when you find the one for you. Do not be nervous about your first days at college, everyone will help you with every step. The adjustment might be a little difficult but it will all be worth it. College will feel like home in no time. When times get stressful, remember why your going to college and the outcome it will bring you. Be strong and ambitious and you will suceed in college.

Dallas

I would tell myself to take classes seriously, and to make sure that my priorities are in place. Also, I would tell myself to be more open to people and situations and to not hold back from making friends with everyone I can. I would tell myself to not worry about missing my family and homelife because almost everyone else at college is in the same situation. Finally I would tell myself to be better at saving money because sometimes in college it seems like I have none!!

Denise

The main advice that I would give myself is to start time managment. Even when I know that something is due I tend to put it off for something better to do then the homework. In the end I get everything done, but that doesn't mean that I won't lose sleep over it. Once I get time managment under control college life is actually fairly easy. The classes, at least so far, are fairly easy, all I have to do is go to class and study.

Candace

1) Don't be afraid. The transition is actually not as scary as it seems at first-everyone just needs a little time to take it all in. It's normal! 2) Work on time management-don't wait until the last minute to write a paper. You're don't give yourself enough time to actually do your best. 3) Just breathe. You can get through this-you're not on your own.

Patricia

I would tell myself to relax about the "big picture" and take one day at a time. Don't worry about what you need to have acomplished in the next year or two, but rather focus on the "here and now". Take a deep breathe and concentrate on being successful on what the task is at hand; thats the only way you'll be successful in the future.

Lloyd

I never really considered college an option for me. I never went to visit colleges with my parents or bothered to research any colleges. I understood the reality of my situation: my family was living off of food stamps and social security checks; there was no way I was going to college. I had spoken with my guidance counselor and she had told me about scholarships and all of the financial aid that was available but I never believed I would win a scholarship. Although my experiences have matured me at a faster rate than others of my age group I do not see that as a negative. I was taught responsibility and the value of hard work at a young age. I learned how to seize opportunities and think logically very early in life. Being the oldest male in my family, my siblings looked to me for guidance and support during our time in Foster Care and I was glad to help. I love them so much; I would do anything for them. I understand the importance of structure and rules but I also know that not every situation should be handled the same way.

Heidi

I've gotten a great many things out of my college expirience at Hood College. I've gained many life-long friends with whom I am very close. I have learned how to be independant and how to take care of things for myself without calling home for assistance. I have met people from many different walks of life and I have learned not to take my great home life for granted. I have learned the value of proper procedure and research in the lab and many science skills that will aid me later in my academic and professional careers. I have learned the importance of cummunication with both friends and professors. I have gotten a better appreciation for classical music and the fine arts. I have gotten a better sense of who I am as a person and I feel I have grown greatly as a result of my time at Hood College. And I have learned the value of hard work and perseverance in ever aspect of my life, academic and personal.

Denisse

From college I have received endless amounts of valuable experiences. I have not only learned more about biology, which I think is going to be my major, but I have learned about life. I have learned to appreciate everything my parents have done for me. I have learned to be responsible for myself. I have learned to interact with other people whom I knew nothing about them and quickly create strong friendship bonds with some. From my professors I have learned how to think beyond, farther than what is superficially seen and to apply these concepts to our lives now and in the future. College so far for me has been a place to grow personally and intellectually.

Julie

As the end of my college career approaches this is a very appropriate question to answer. Obviously, earning a degree is something I gained from my college experience. Probably the most important thing about this experience is how I accomplished this goal. I worked extremely hard throughout my entire college career. By working hard I was able to receive good grades. In addition I established lasting relationships with my professors who I see as mentors. I have more confidence in myself and believe I can do anything. College is only going to be valuable if you make it valuable. This is something I did and now I want to go on to graduate school for Library Science.

Linda

The experience of attending college classes has inspired me to look beyond the material being presented in class and examine it from a different angle. Every student brings their own background and experiences into the mix, which not only makes the discussions stimulating, but encourages me to broaden my own knowledge base; this allows me to share pertinent information with others and to be receptive to what they have to share with me, which is not only valuable in college, but in everyday life as well. There is also a strong sense of support when working on the various writing assignments; since each one presents its own set of challenges, being able to communicate with other students regarding their interpretations of the assignments very often provides me with a fresh approach. Of course, the professors are there to "guide" the students, but only give a limited information because they want students to look within themselves and come up with their own unique approaches to completing the assignments; this can be both frustrating and rewarding, though it is necessary to go through this in order to experience the true essence of the college experience.

Faith

My college experience provides me with value, esteem, confidence, appreciation, knowledge, integrity, communication skills, challenges, and goals. I have grown intellectually and within an environment that provides positive results. Having the opportunity to attend college is not given to every person I understand this and appreciate this gift in life. I have not missed one day of class - one opportunity to grow - one chance of becoming a better person with a college degree. I value this experience and every challenge that comes with. To attend college is giving me the chance to help others in a way I could not without a degree. My desire is to be of service for others in the field of psychology and therapy - a requirement is a degree and my objective is to obtain this. I am also setting an example to my family and two daughters the importance of education regardless how difficult it may seem. I work full time and attend evening classes. Also being a single mother allows me to appreciate the challenging times even more - because I will succeed and finish my walk in a higher education journey.

Drew

My college experience has taught me to be more independent and how to focus much more intensely on my work as well as plan ahead for the future. Through the experience of the advisors at the school I have been able to plan accordingly for my future as far as graduation and taking advantage of all the opportunities that are available to me while I am attending this school. The environment has very stimulating for learning which I feel has allowed me to be more successful in my classes. Along with this it has allowed me to develop better study habits which I will carry with me when I graduate and apply that kind of focus in the work place. The school I attend has allowed me to become not only a better student but a better person and without attending this school I do not think I would be as successful as I have been.

Victoria

Like any learning institution, Hood College has provided me with knowledge that I am positive will help me in the future; however, unlike other learning institutions, Hood College has also provided me with knowledge about something more than just, in the words of Hermoine Granger, "books and cleverness." Hood College has helped prepare me for life outside of school. To me, this is invaluable. My college experience at Hood has made me internally analyze myself and made me ask myself: who am I and what do I want from life? It has made me stronger as a person as I complete assignments and interact with people that, had I not attended Hood College, I probably never would have had the fortune to meet and know. For example, I am currently rooming with a girl who is from Georgia! As I look at all the people that I have come to know, both students and faculty, I realize how truly blessed I am and how much Hood has helped make this possible. Therefore, by attending college, I have discovered not only Austen, da Vinci, Marcus Aurelius, and Mendel, but also myself and life-long friends as well.

Michael

College has given me the outlet that I needed to truly express and become who I am. Attending Hood College has truly allowed me to sharpen my craft as a musician, on campus there were so many opportunities for me to perform on violin and song. I have grown as person to become truly independent. In high school I did the performing arts but my primary focus was the International Baccalaureate Program, at Hood College I am still able to keep the academic rigor that I am used to as well as focus myself on my music. On campus as a music major there is so much more that goes into music than I ever thought I was able to learn this through the musical ensembles that I participated in and the music theory course I took. I truly learned about why music works and how it functions. This has allowed me to grow a greater understanding of who I am as a musician.

Garvis-Govanni

During my time in college I have gained leadership. As a freshman I was eager to become involved in campus organizations, and participate in study groups. Both of which helped me maintain a grade point average over 3.0 and allowed me to have a good time while on campus. Eventually, I found myself leading study groups, and taking executive positions in campus organizations. I did not realize how valuable leadership was until recently. Demonstrating leadership has opened many doors for me. One of which is being Programs Director of Blazer Radio, which is Hood College’s radio station. Another example is being team captain of an intramural flag football team on campus. Being a leader was something I did not demonstrate in high school. I did not participate in as much organizations, but I am glad this changed during my time in college. It’s an amazing feeling to have someone look up to you and because of my experience at Hood; I get that feeling every day.

Lauren

Hood College changes and matures me as well as keeps me the same because I am able to remain true to myself. I am able to involve myself in campus clubs and activities, as well intern with The Virginia Dog magazine. Blazer Radio is the club I am most involved in, serving as both a DJ to my own radio show, as well as the Director of Promotions on the Executive Board. I promote the club with my Co-Director, touch base with the student body, and connect with others through music and as “The Voice Of Hood College.” The Virginia Dog has laid a phenomenal foundation for my journalistic endeavors. With help from my publisher I have learned so much about my intended career. This type of networking is ideal for future career plans. As a student and individual at Hood, I have remained true to myself. While I have grown by participating at the school, I could not have done so without the support I receive from those at Hood. At Hood it is easy to make true friends, which is what a person needs to stay on track and achieve their dreams.

Leah

From attending Hood College, I've met amazing, diverse people--including teachers and students, who have impacted me and my life forever. Through my education at Hood, I've been introduced to so many new topics and ideas that have changed my life philosophy and ideas for the better--for me specifically I've been exposed to the encapturing field of economics and all of the possibilities that it holds. I've been able to work with amazing individuals and have discovered more about myself that I ever would have at a large, impersonal university. Hood is a truely accepting, homely, warm and encouraging school that can't help but make it's student body proud to be a part of the Hood family. Though it sets it's standards very high, it only does so because Hood knows that all of its students are capable of meeting and excelling beyond those standards and that by doing so we will reach our highest potential and become the strong, smart, and extremely prepared people that Hood sees in us and to prepare us for the enriched road that lies ahead.

ruby

What i have gotten out of my college experience is that it is more difficult than high school. The classes are more advanced and it requires a lot of time and effort to pass the classes. The professors are helpfull if you ask for help. You have a lot of independence because you are on your own and have do not have someone to tell you to keep up with stuff. The grade you get in a class is depended on how much effort you have put into that class. For the most part the college experience is a good one because it prepares you for a 4-year university.

Jessica

I am currently in the middle of my college experience, but what i've learned from it so far is determination to make sure i'm getting the best grades I can, as well as follow through with the work I submit. These values have been helpful in my everyday life such as follow through with my job and allowing my to advance in that aspect. College has been a great experience so far because I feel like the more I do, the more I accomplish and the closer I come to being an independant, well-educated member of society. It also offers an outlet to stay busy so I always have something to focus on rather than just going to work and feeling as if I'm not furthering my education or helping my future in anyway. I look forward to the next few years in college until I'm able to graduate and work in the field of Psychology which I love and knowing that my hard work and education got me there.

Maria

My college experience has taught me a lot. It has taught me how to live on my own, how to deal with higher level authorities when I have a problem, and how to deal with the issues that come up with your friends in everyone's life. All the things I have learned will help me in my future when I get my own job and live on my own with my own family. It has been very valuable to attend because I have met some of my favorite people here. Some of my best friends, my role models, and my boyfriend have all come from only three years here at Hood and I cannot imagine my life if I didn't attend Hood College. Hood College, a small school in the middle of a small city- has changed my life forever in so many wonderful ways.

Ashley

College has forced me to become an independent soul. In high school we are coddled like we are still infants when really we need to be learning responsibilities. Make no mistake, I have learned some responsibility in high school, but college was completely different. Just being thrown into a brand new schedule is enough to make a student want to take advantage of their new-found freedom. But I learned quickly that college freedom brings a ton of responsibility and it isn't up to my teachers to nudge me to get my work done, it's up to me. The life experiences that college teaches students like me, are lessons that I will learn and use frequently for the rest of my life. From managing my own schedule, to completing tasks on time, to the day to day social interactions I am forced to make with strangers. I have been told college isn't for everyone, and once thought it wasn't right for me. But there are greater lessons learned in college other than just core subjects. Faculty and teachers, they are educating students on life as well.

Taylor

I have gotten many things out of my college experience here at Hood College. I learned lessons about things that not even my parents and only experience could teach me. Other than getting my education, I feel like the most important thing I learned was time management. College is fun, but it is not all just a party. It requires a lot of time and effort. I also learned how to go out of my comfort zone and meet new people and try things that I would not normally do. Doing this allowed me to meet people that I would be proud to call my life long friends. However, here at school, the friends you make turn out to be your own little family away from home. We always support eachother and look out for eachother just like any family would, and that is something that cannot have a price put on it, not even tuition.

Gwen

I have gotten alot of things from my college experience so far. I have learned to be open to diversity and to overcome difficult situations. I have learned to let my voice be heard when it comes to issues such as problems relating to the environment and equality of the sexes. I have learned to be aware of the issues that are world wide such as AIDS awareness and suicide prevention for college students, and that doing a little bit to help someone goes along way. I learned to give my all when completing assignments because it matters. I was able to open up to others and share my stories with them, as well as listening to theirs. I have been forced to come out of my shell and meet other people through the use of the traditional "Hood Hello" and exposure to the cultures of the other students, by taking part in events such as Hood's "vegan and Hannakkah dinner nights" Hood has been valuable for me to attend because I have learned to be more outgoing as well as informed, self- diciplined and open to new experiences.

Tabitha

So far I have gotten to experiance life away from home and become independent and responsible. I am recieving a wonderful education in my opinon and it is very valuble to me. I've also meet some wonderful people who I hope to have an everlasting friendship with. College has opened up my world to the possiblities that lay ahead of me while giving me freedom and responsiblity to make my dreams a realility.

Joseph

My college experience has been the most enriching and rewarding event of my existence in ways that are too numerous to mention; however, I will elaborate on a few. Going to college has created the avenue for opportunities that otherwise would not have been available to me. Indeed, a college education has increased my income potential exponentially, improved the quality of my life both socially and economically, and has improved my productivity in the workplace. My mother never went to college but she knew the value of a college education, she inspired to me to pursue further my education. I am the first sibling from a family of 10 and it will me a proud moment when I earn my BA. And going to college has also provided motivation my children to pursue a college education.

Aaron

A sense of accomplishment and a vast knowledge that can help me in my future. I'm more confident in my work.

Brittni

My college experience thus far has been a revelation. My first thought was to achieve an education because nowadays you cannot go far in life without it, and it would help to have it. As I go through this journey to become a Veterinarian, I realized that my college education will be opening up opportunity for me. I hope to continue to learn and help other with my education.

Mariya

The college experience for me is a life-changing progression into adulthood. In high school, I did not study much and yet I still managed to get straight A's in the last three years. College, however, has brought me into a new world of responsibility and decision-making. I live on campus with a roommate and I now have to manage time on my own. I have learned how to take care of myself without the help of my family. I am also responsible for paying a large part of my education and this makes me value what I am being taught and drives me to try harder. I am determined to keep my grades in excellent condition because I know that the career world is very competitive. I need to become a worthy candidate in my field of study, which is Computer Science. College has been valuable to me in other ways too. I have encouraged myself to get involved into extracarricular activities because they will help shape my character and leadership skills for my future career. I want to be a strong person and be prepared to face anything in the future.

Laura

Hood college has given me the opportunity to reach my goal of becoming an Elementary and Special Education teacher. The program is rigorous, however it allows me to have a background in every academic subject and substatial experience in a real classroom. I have also formed strong bonds with my professors throughout my time here at Hood. Coming from a small highschool where I became close with my teachers there, I hoped to have the same experience at Hood. This has come true, and all of my professors care about my future and my well-being. As a small school, Hood has allowed me to branch out and have friends in all different aspects of school, for example, sports, clubs, classes, and artistic activities. I know that when I graduate Hood College, I will leave with the ability to teach in whatever state I desire due to the high reputation of the Hood College Education program. Also, I know that I will leave with life-long friends and relationships with professors, students, and coaches that I have made throughout my 4 years here.

Christina

So far I've gotten a lot out of it. Learning something new each day as well as a new expierence. It's valuable to attend for a better future.

stacey

In my first semester of my freshman year at Hood College, I have found my experience to be very valuable. I am taking five diverse courses and enjoy the learning experience of a small college with small classes where students can actually talk to professors and other students. The professors at this college seem extremely knowledgeable in their subject matter and enjoy teaching. I like what Hood College stands for and offers. I like the feel of the commuity. I am very impressed with the Honors program that I am in and the Communications Dept which I plan to major in. I am involved in many activities that Hood offers such as journalism, STARS (ambassadors), theater, improv, etc.

Tricia

I have learned that juggling with children and college can be very difficult. I just have to tell myself that I must successfully complete what I started. Some instructors are difficult and some are very kind and understanding. The kind and understanding instructors motivates me to want to learn. They make their classes interesting so I would not want to miss a class unless an absolute emergency. College also help me to keep my mind focused on the positive for my future versus the negative at home. I am usually so busy with school requirements that I dont have time to worry about all the bad things that are happening in my personal life. In other words, school is positive therapy for me and my children. At the same time, I am able to be a positive role model for them and it encourages them in wanting to learn more. Infact, they will sit and do homework with me while I complete mine.

Michelle

College, for me, is a growing up experience, and it is where I am building up my character. Coming in from high school I received a huge wake up call my first year. In high school receiving an "A" wasn't that hard to do because I was able to go home, away from my friends, and study. College was where I had to decide which was more important, school or a social life. It was hard to balance both friends and school, but I managed. At first it was also hard to be away from home, but a strong focus on my goals and with the help of great friends, I was able to mature more into an adult. Without attending college I know I would not have matured as fast as I have. I am furthering my education, in order to become someone great in our society.

Keith

I have strengthened my intellectual understanding of many subjects by attending a liberal arts college. By attending a school outside of my home state, I have learned a new culture and have met many interesting, smart people. I have discovered a lot about myself, including what I think I want to persue as a career. I went into school wanted to study pharmacology, but ended up discovering that my real passion lies in anthropology, language, and archaeology. When I was younger, I tried to imagine who I would be when I was the age I am now. I realize now that I hadn't any idea the potential of who I'd become. Whenever I am on campus, studying or walking across campus to my classes, I constantly evaluate my college experience, which is quickly coming to a close. More and more, I feel both a sense of inspiration to apply my knowledge to my environment and a sense of happiness to explore my passions and remedy my academic curiousity.

Irenemarie

My classes have allowed me further insight into the paralegal field. Before starting at ITT I did not even know what a paralegal was. All I knew was that a paralegal worked closely with attorney's on the different cases. So far I have learned that when I am pushed to do my best, that is when I do my best work. So far this whole experience has been very valuable. I have learned about myself, and I am preparing for my future as a paralegal, with the help of someone who has actually worked in the field. Other colleges give you the book smarts, and later on when you get into your field of work, that is the only thing that you will have. But the teachers at ITT show you what will actually happen and prepare you for those circumstances.

Pamela

Thus far in my freshman year of college, I have gained a sense of belonging at my school. The people and environment are friendly, opening, and welcoming. I have had a semester of struggles with my history and spanish classes but the professors are always willing to lend a helping hand and work one-on-one with their students to ensure a successful grade in the class. I have gained a sense of knowing exactly what career path I want to pursue, and that has been reiterated at this school. Not only is the faculty and staff at the school are enjoyable to work with, but so are the students. We all work together and help each other out, just like an actual family. With the campus being so small most students know everyone on campus and really do treat each other with respect and treat you like their extended family.

Meagan

I have learned a great deal of respect and compassion. Respect for the hard working industries out there and compassion for my industry. I will be a Cosmetologist, a successful one at that, I have my teacher Jessy Johnson to thank for that too. She has not only been a great role model but the she has given me the most support and dedication I have ever had. She pushes me to keep learning and be greater. My experiance here at MNTC has been a great one because of her.

Brittney

So many high school students dread the thought of attending another school for another four years. In fact, for so many high school seniors the idea of continuing their education past graduation doesn't even cross their minds. Speaking as a college freshman, finishing out my first semster at Hood College, I can honestly say attending college has been the best decision I have ever made. College has been so much more than just books and classes. It's helped me to mature on such a personal level. Since my sophomore year of high school my family and I have moved over 5 times. I attended 3 different high schools. I have not felt a sense of stability in my life since I was 15 years old, until now. College has been such a relief to me and has provided not only stability, but security. It has helped me become independent of my parents and has been such a blessing.

Jack

At Hood College I have gained all the benefits of a liberal arts education at a highly diverse and well respected institution. The small class sizes here increase both the amount of class participation and the availability of our instructors. Through the care and dedication of my professors I have learned the skills of critical thinking, and honed my writing skills to a collegiate level. I have found a special place in the Hood College community where faculty and students are working together to make the world and the community a better place. I know that my time at Hood has properly prepared me for graduate school which is the next step in my academic career. In addition to these academic benefits, I have made countless friends and connections that I will continue to treasure long after I have graduated.

Kayla

I have attended Hood College for a semester now but previously I was at Carroll Community College where I received my AA. My college experience has molded me into the person I am today. It has shaped me into a more academic and professional individual. I have learned how to become a leader and have been given many opportunities to put these skills to use. College is a time of exploration and experimentation. I have valued this time to develop new relationships and learn new innovative ideas. I have grown into a much stronger individual because of the knowledge I have acquired and I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. I am so glad I was proactive and decided to take my life into my own hands. I am the first member of my family to go to college. I knew what I wanted out of life and I am going for it! I will always remember this experience as such an exhilarating adventure that truly gave me a chance to be what I want to be.

Haley

Attending Hood College has helped me grow so much as a person. I'm more outgoing and no longer afraid to speak up or volunteer in class., and I have a definite idea of what I want to do as a career choice when I graduate. I have also learned the meaning of hard work, time management, and responsibility from spending countless hours studying for exams, while balancing time with friends and family, and working 3 jobs. Hood College is such a family community and everyone on campus is so warm and welcoming - it feels like home! The faculty is very knowledgeable and go out of their way to help studnets with whatever their needs are. Attending college has been valuable to me because I have gained knowledge, experience, and core values that will help me in the real world when it comes time to graduate and land a great job. There is no place like Hood College.

Claire

Going to college has given me the opportunity to explore a variety of things and get to know some of the world, as well as myself. I have learned how different cultures perceive our own in America. I think that expanding my knowledge base is so valuable for making my future and the things I choose to do more meaningful. There are subjects I have learned about that I did not even know existed which proves to me that there is always more to learn. Even when I am done with my undergrad degree, and done with graduate school I will continue to seek out new information because no matter what I know there is always more about the world I can learn. Having a college education has thus far enlightened me and instilled in me a desire to help make the changes America needs.

Theresa

Hood College has, so far, provided me with a positve college experience. When I first strated college, I was extemely shy and had no idea what my life's path would be. Within the past two years, Hood College has encouraged participation, both in and out of the classroom that has made me more comfortable speaking and connecting with new people. I have additionally found something that I am exponentially excited about persuing once I have graduated. The english department in Hood College captivated me, and the possible carreer path of publishing is what I would like to persue. I could not ask for a better college experience. Hood College challanges me intellectually and socially, and I am better for it.

crystal

Being an older student is a challenge within it self. I have been working since I was 14 years old, had 2 teen pregnancy and still manage to walk across my high school stage and graduate. Life has thrown me a lot of obstacles I had to hurdle. Comin from a low-income family, I made it my destiny to attend college and graduate with a degree. It took me 7 years to graduate from a local community college. I was determined for personal and professional growth. I want to bet the odds of the limits placed on being a teen mother, then young wedded mother, the divorce and single with kid stigmas. I push to rise above and even if it take me 20 more years I will succeed. It is my personal interest to set an example for my kids and young, single mother teens that they do not have to give up. I am determine to find any way to shorten my college journey at Hood and graduate in 2012. Although, not by choice, I was forced into unemployment and decided to attend college full-time, Hood made that last minute decision a smooth transition.

Tayana

I have gotten a sense of community and respect from my college experience. I learned that it is possible for people to come together and be united for one cause despite any cultural and/or physical differences they may have initially. By attending college I have had classes with people from countries as far away as Korea to as close to as my own hometown. I've been able to step outside of my comfort zone and explore myself more as an individual. I know that I am responsible for my own actions and that others will respect me if I show them the respect that they deserve.

Vincent

College has taught me to be self efficient. So that I can depend on myself to get the job done giving others and myself more confidence in my work. College has also taught me that anything worth attaining requires hard work and dedication.