Lisa

“Everything I needed in order to GROW I learned at Highline Community College.”

Lisa on the Honors Program

Some say that everything you need to know you learn in kindergarten, but I say… everything I needed in order to GROW I learned at Highline Community College.

At the age of 32, I was full of regrets about the choices I made in my early years that kept me from finishing my degree. At 18 years of age, I was entering motherhood while my friends were entering college. Returning was intimidating to say the least. Yet the moment I arrived on campus I knew this was the place for me. From admissions to the staff and faculty, I immediately felt that I belonged here and that my possibilities were endless. Still, when I crossed paths with Dr. Barbara Clinton of the Honors Department, I felt like I was too old. Yet, the encouragement of the other students in the Program was a welcome support in my life.

How did it help me? By allowing me to grow, encouraging change and stretching my perceptions. My life was chaotic, juggling the roles of full time student, wife, mother of three ages 11, 13 and 16, and employee at the Matt Talbot Center, working with chemically dependent men and women. The Honors Department with Dr. Clinton kept me grounded. I was able to stay focused in the midst of finals, challenge myself when I felt like giving up, and change my world of meaning by embracing the views of others around me.

On June 9, 2005, in front of family and friends I commenced as a Highline Honors Scholar, member of Phi Theta Kappa, and winner of $10,000 in scholarships and grants to attend Seattle Pacific University that fall. Think that is amazing? I applied and received acceptance to University of Washington, Seattle University, and Seattle Pacific University!

Remember this, people don’t become successful on their own, but with the help of those who stand with them along the way. I know that my achievements would not have been possible without the leadership of Dr. Clinton, my instructors, and the staff of Highline Community College. For me life didn’t end at 34; in fact, it was just beginning.

I transferred to Seattle Pacific University in the fall of 2005, earning a bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2008; I decided to remain at SPU to pursue a Master’s degree as a professional school counselor/educator. Over the next 2-3 years, I worked within K-12 settings supporting students and families in individual and small group counseling, classroom guidance and supplemental resource support. Fall 2010, I began my final program requirements which included a year-long internship at the middle school level and comprehensive exam. I will graduate in June 2011 and look forward to my next step, which includes pursuing a doctorate in education or obtaining a post-master’s certificate in school psychology.