Graduate Decides not to Become a Statistic; Improves Her Life With Education

Holly Jackson chose not to become a statistic.

After being involved in an abusive relationship and being in trouble with the legal system, she decided it was time to take action and improve her life so she didn’t end up as just another statistic. 

She chose education even though she hadn’t been to school for quite a while.  “Going to LCCC has given me a chance to get past all of the horrible things that I have gone through in the past six years and work at my own pace on my degree,” Jackson said.

She’ll graduate this May with an associate of individualized studies degree. Not only is she graduating but also she did so well in her school work that she was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, the national honor society for community college students where she holds the office of Vice President of Public Relations. She graduates with a 3.38 grade point average.

Jackson, of Elyria, plans to attend Cleveland State University through LCCC’s University Partnership program and earn bachelors degrees in Business Administration and Urban Studies. 

“When I get my bachelor’s degrees I want to work in the non-profit sector helping people who fall through the cracks in our systems or with a company that wants to revitalize our area and bring jobs to our communities,” she said. 

Reaching her educational goal at LCCC would not have been possible, she notes, without the help and support of instructors Dorinda Smith and Annette Grdijan.

“They both have pushed me hard to believe in myself and not let my past or my past failures define who I am,” Jackson said. “When I wanted to give up or couldn’t stay focused they supported me with their wisdom and kind words, and for that I am eternally grateful.” 

Life can be stressful enough without the added burden of going to college, and that’s why it’s important to get involved on campus and develop relationships that can help ease those burdens, she noted.

“My Phi Theta Kappa family has been extremely supportive. We all love and support each other. We offer study tips and the strength of friendship as we tackle day-to-day life and the responsibilities of our involvement of the club,” Jackson said.

For those contemplating going back to school, but are unsure if they will be able to handle it Jackson, 36, said, “Go for it. LCCC has flexible classes and if you’re not comfortable in a big setting the online classes let you learn from home.”

We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.