How the Community at my Community College has Changed my Life
I never really wanted to go to college. I completed the lower grades as a home-schooled student and later completed high school in another country. What I knew about college did little to spark any desire. Most of my life I was raised as a missionary kid, and I had learned that professional education was not everything in life. After taking a year break after high school, I found myself staying with my grandparents and my younger brother in the United States. My brother was doing dual-credit classes, and when he was signing up for the next semester, somehow, I signed up too.
At that point, I had never had a real job, and I had no clue what I wanted to study; so, I began with general classes. I loved it! I had been so used to such inconsistent learning environments, and this was the first time I was able to feel actual growth. The teachers were amazing and passionate, and the topics were all so new to me I could feel myself maturing at a rapid pace. I completed general classes for the next semester as well. I was able to take a variety of classes and gain understanding that transferred to my everyday life. My third semester I finally decided on Business Management. It's funny really. Up until this point, I had taken no business courses; however, I had so much faith in the teachers and the belief that I would gain knowledge that would be with me for any circumstance, I had no hesitation.
It was the right decision for me. My business teacher has been the most kind, assistive, and consistent person for me academically since I can remember. My college has been the best thing for me. It gave me a place to re-adjust culturally and to learn and expand my knowledge and wisdom on many topics. I have been able to make amazing friends and do actual "friend things" for the first time. I joined a club that allowed me to interact with other Christians. I was even able to get my first job at the college. In my three semesters up until this point, I have been on the President's list twice, the Vice President's list once, and have taken 18 classes total not counting this new semester.
At the start, I may have been semi-tricked into signing up, but it has been the best thing that could have ever happened to me in this phase of my life. I have grown immensely, and I now have direction in my life. I love my college; I love my teachers; I love my friends; I love those with whom I work, and above all, I love the community that I have found for myself here at my community college.