What program or major did you pursue at NCTC, and what inspired that choice?

I decided to major in pscyhology. I have always had an interest in how the human mind works and how our thoughts and behaviors influence our lives. I also believe that people have much more potential than they are aware of, and I have a drive to focus on the factors that motivate potential, such as resilience, spirituality, openness to experience and further personality and behavioral traits that serve as predictors of potential, growth, and expansion.

What drew you to NCTC originally?

I was drawn to NCTC because I wanted the opportunity to begin higher-education at a very slow pace. I did not attempt college courses until I turned 40 and I was unsure if I would be able to understand the course material after such a long time away from academics. However, once I dove into the coursework, I found it extremly enjoyable and moved through it with more ease than expected. The support of excellent instructors was highly beneficial to this process.

Can you describe a class, project, or professor at NCTC that had a lasting impact on you?

Professor Dornan taught a few of my psychology courses and I absolutely loved learning from her! I completed two of my honors projects under her instruction and her enthusiasm for teaching and learning was highly influential in my decision to continue on with pscyhology when transferring over to TWU, after completing my Associate's Degree. Professor Dornan is well-learned in the subject of psychology, patient, inovative, and kind. I will never forget the impact she had on my early academic career

Where has your career path taken you since graduating from NCTC?

Since graduating from NCTC, I have maintained my position as Center Manager for TWU's Center for Research Design & Analysis. Outside of my professional path, I have mentored both undergraduate and graduate students in creating public-facing projects, completed several independent research studies with my faculty mentor, Dr. Christian Hart, and received awards for both my research and writing projects within the institution.

How did your time at NCTC prepare you for your current role or next steps in education? I decided to major in pscyhology.

Attending NCTC provided me with the competence and confidence to apply to TWU after completing my Associate's degree. The honor's program, in particular, really helped me understand the scope of my abilities and fueled my drive to continue onward with my educational endeavors.

What’s one professional accomplishment you're especially proud of?

I am especially proud of my capstone project, which won best senior submission at TWU. It was titled "Neuroticism and conscientiousness as predictors of cognitive impairment related to Alzheimer's disease: an argument for early personality testing and intervention."

Were you involved in any student organizations, clubs, or activities while at NCTC? How did that shape your experience?

I was involved in the NCTC honors program and this program was of great benefit in building my confidence, while guiding me in enhancing my researching skills.

What advice would you give to current or incoming NCTC students?

Reach for the stars! Do not place limitations on yourself and do your best to release any self-doubt. You are capable of more than you know and if you feel like you are struggling or need help, reach out to your professors. They are there to provide that support, and at NCTC, they truly want you to succeed.

What does being an NCTC alum mean to you?

I'm proud to be an NCTC alum. I feel that two-year colleges do not receive enough credit for the impact they have on students. I would not be capable of moving through graduate school, today, had I not taken that leap of faith and enrolled at NCTC. The college provided me with the foundation needed to pursue my goals, and that is not something that should be taken lightly.