Stories & Case Studies
As Community College Month comes to a close, Achieving the Dream is proud to celebrate the remarkable work being done every day across the ATD Network to support student success and community vitality. Throughout April, we spotlighted colleges that are leading the way in serving adult learners, justice-impacted students, rural communities, workforce development, and dual enrollment — each an essential part of expanding access and opportunity. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the colleges that joined us in celebrating this month by sharing their stories, insights, and student voices. Your contributions helped shine a light on the power and promise of community colleges. As we wrap up the month, we leave you with the voices that matter most — those of the students themselves. Below is a collection of quotes from adult learners and students at rural community colleges whose experiences inspire and ground our work every day.
Adult learners
What is one resource or program at your college that has made the biggest difference in your success as an adult learner?
“My experience as an adult learner has been greatly enhanced by connecting with a resource navigator and participating in the TRIO program. The support I received from various individuals within student services was invaluable, assisting me with obtaining textbooks and providing access to food during times when I lacked sufficient funds. More importantly, they ensured I was prioritizing my well-being during a particularly stressful period of balancing full-time work and academics.”
—Tiffany Detillion, North Central State College
“The program here at TSC that has impacted me the most is the Veteran Success Center. Since beginning my academic career in 2021, I have utilized this space both to study and decompress. It was a key factor in me deciding to pursue my bachelor’s degree here … and continues to be a tremendous resource to me today as I finish my last semester at TSC.”
—Michael Floyd, Tallahassee State College
How has your college supported you in balancing school, work, and family responsibilities?
“The road is not an easy one: having four little kids and going to school for nursing is not a talk of play. I’ve got my hands full, but the financial aid, other grants, and school scholarship relieved me from so many burdens. I also appreciate the school for the food program … this is huge for me. I got so many food supplies from the school, and this program is one in a million.”
—Nkechinyere Arukwe, Grayson College
“I struggled a lot in the beginning, but I feel that the teachers at Tallahassee State College are some of the best around. I have found them easy to talk to and extremely helpful. They were always patient and went out of their way to help me. The classes were offered at several different times and made it easy to work around my own schedule.”
—Elaine Figueroa Sires, Tallahassee State College
Describe an interaction you have had with a faculty or staff member at your college that made you feel truly supported as an adult learner?
“A particularly impactful interaction occurred when I was facing a challenging period at work and home simultaneously … When I reached out to Professor Michelle Dam, she immediately offered practical solutions, such as extended deadlines. Her reassurance and understanding relieved my stress immensely, reaffirming my sense of belonging and value as a student.”
—Quinda Gadson, Tallahassee State College
“Mrs. Hance has been the kindest mentor — from squeezing me in at the last moment of submissions and answering all my questions to guiding me throughout the whole program. Dental assisting has always been a career choice that I have wanted to accomplish; I’m so thankful Mrs. Hance chose me to be in the program.”
—Allysa Gallaway, Grayson College
“The thought of going back to college as a single mom was really overwhelming. The people here have really done a wonderful job of giving me all of the resources I have needed. … They were even helpful getting my scheduling ready, helping make sure I knew how to order books. Just all the little minute details that can feel like big tasks when they pile up.”
—Jessica Hickman, North Central State College
“So, for me, there is an advisor by the name of Mr. Tim. I was having trouble with classes and how I was going to break my load of school down due to us disabled veterans having different requirements to meet being a full-time student. He sat me down and was very hands on getting me on the right path towards my ultimate goal after school.”
—Keivoghn Jordon, Tallahassee State College
Rural College Students
What is one thing you wish more people knew about rural community colleges?
“One thing I wish more people knew about rural community colleges like Chippewa Valley Technical College is how they connect education to real life. CVTC isn’t just training students; it’s building the local workforce, supporting students, and keeping rural communities strong. CVTC is transforming lives every day.”
—Eve Decker, Chippewa Valley Technical College
“That the rural community colleges are extremely supportive of each individual student, providing and equipping each of them with the resources and tools they need to succeed. The professors and staff of rural community colleges such as Vance-Granville, with their enduring assistance in either personal or educational aspects of one’s life, make it nearly impossible to reach failure.”
—Laila Oakley, Vance-Granville Community College
“I’ve learned more than I could have ever possibly imagined pursuing my Associate of Arts degree here, and I think a lot of that is thanks to the level of care and dedication our instructors have put into ensuring the success of each of their students. That’s not something you see as much with bigger classrooms, and it’s one of the things that really makes me proud to be a student here at CVTC.”
—Toby Czech, Chippewa Valley Technical College
How has your college helped you feel connected to your local community or prepared you for a career close to home?
“At CCC, I found a community that believes in me. The support from my advisor and classmates helped me get back on track with my education. Now, I’m working toward becoming a CNA so I can bring medical care back to the Navajo Nation.” — Jace Johnson, Coconino Community College.”
—Jace Johnson, Coconino Community College
“At CVTC, I’m involved with TRIO SSS and the Empower Club, which is connected to the Student Success and Accessibility Department. [TRIO SSS has] hosted events where I can meet people around the community that offer job opportunities and mock interviews. With the Empower Club, I’ve met many different people around the Eau Claire area and have participated in multicultural events. These two activities connected to CVTC have helped me feel more connected on and off campus.”
—DJ Vang, Chippewa Valley Technical College
“Coming to CCC was the first step in turning my passion for construction into a career. The hands-on experience here has prepared me to transfer to NAU, and one day, I hope to own my own business — just like my family.”
—Patric Stone, Coconino Community College
What is the one thing you appreciate most about how your college encourages the success of rural students?
“Something I appreciate about my college is how they are constantly supportive of any decision you make. The staff here is always available for you. They really make you feel prioritized while figuring out the next steps to help you further your education.”
—Tydasia Faulkner, Vance-Granville Community College
“As a single mom and a disabled student, CCC has given me opportunities I never imagined. The support from my professors and classmates has helped me push past challenges and build a future I’m excited for. You can do hard things — CCC helps make it possible.”
—Lindsey DiStefano, Coconino Community College
“Opportunities provided by rural community colleges offer programs that help our community, and offering different levels of education and opportunities helps students get out sooner and start their careers. With a lot of things being offered that our communities need, it is nice to know colleges like these provide students with the opportunity to make a difference at home.”
—Alyssa Lake, Vance-Granville Community College
Here are just a few of the blogs featured during Community College Month:
Three colleges, three bold approaches to workforce training
From incarceration to hope and opportunity: How Lee college changes lives