An obstacle I had to face was the loss of someone who filled the role of a grandfather in my life. His name was Andrew Junior, but I called him AJ for short. He always encouraged me to shoot for the stars and never look back. Losing him was a major setback in my life—it really hurt, to say the least. But even though he’s no longer here, his words, encouragement, and support continue to push me every single day. AJ is the reason I continue to bet on myself. He’s the reason I started college at just fifteen years old and continue to show up to class every day, despite the challenges that come with being the youngest among my peers. He’s the reason I currently hold a 4.0 GPA and continue striving to build a better version of myself and of those around me. Most importantly, he’s the reason I want to be a light used for others to see their potential within themselves, just like he was for me. I hope to one day carry the same glow and impact he had during his lifetime. In my community, there aren’t many job opportunities that pay well above minimum wage, especially for young people. I want to change that by owning my own company one day and creating better job opportunities for those around me. Growing up in a small city, it’s easy for people to put limits on their capabilities and settle for less because they don’t believe more is possible. I want my success to reflect not just me, but also where I come from. Through my story, I hope to inspire others who come from similar backgrounds to never despise small beginnings and to keep pushing toward their goals, no matter how big they are, like AJ always told me.

There are several reasons I would recommend attending a community college over a four-year university. The first is support. Many professors at community colleges come from the same communities as their students, so they understand their challenges and experiences. This creates an environment of care and understanding that is often hard to find elsewhere. Another major advantage of community college is affordability. Tuition at community colleges is typically up to 90% cheaper than that of traditional four-year institutions. This makes it possible for students—whether they are fresh out of high school or returning to education later in life—to pursue their goals without the burden of overwhelming debt. This is not to mention the potential scholarships and financial aid programs available that further assist in lightening the load of debt due to school. There are also several misconceptions about community colleges. Some people believe that community colleges offer fewer opportunities or that their degrees carry less value in the job market. In reality, most employers prioritize experience and skills just as much as formal education. Community colleges often provide hands-on learning and real-world experience as well as amazing connections that prepare students for success in their various career paths. Finally, community college should not be seen as a limitation but as a launch pad. Many students use their associate degrees as a stepping stone, transferring to four-year universities with confidence, preparation, and academic experience. Community college gives students the chance to build a strong academic foundation, gain support, and save money—all while setting themselves up for future success.