In the summer of 2015, my dream was to become a makeup artist. That's what I told my family at least. I planned to go to New York City, go to a makeup academy, and work in coffee shop on the corner to pay my rent. But that's all it was: a dream. It was short-lived when I found my passion was to help people, not do makeup, which was fun on my own time, because when my mom got sick, all I wanted to do was care for her. But when it came time to choose the right college, I ran into a few road bumps.

People I went to high school with claimed community colleges were inferior to more distinguished institutions. I second guessed myself. Was this a place I really wanted to attend for four years? What would my friends think? Would I even make new friends? But then something changed over night, all of those questions seemed so petty. While they were off paying $20,000 a year, I was only paying $5,000 a year. I get to stay home safe with my family by my side, while still being independent and responsible, though I still have a few insecurities when I tell people I’m going to Mott.

I recently went to a family reunion. Everyone there either went to a university or is on their way. My uncle asked me, “Did you ever choose what school you were going to go to?” When I told him I planned to go to a community college, he seemed surprisingly pleased. He praised me for choosing the smarter choice in order to save money. But when he asked me, “Do you have any boys chasing you?” I regret what I said to him, “No, I won't find anyone good at Mott either,” as if I’m better than anyone there. A lot of people, including myself, studying at a community college. Why did I feel the need to degrade the very school I'd be attending in a few months to be accepted by my family?

I was always told I would have to pay for my own education, so that played a large factor in choosing what school I went to. Classes are cheaper, it's close by, it's best community college in the country, and I just happen to get free home cooked meals. Mott just seems like the perfect fit for me. I can even get my registered nurse's license with an Associate's degree, which was the icing on the cake.

I am so lucky to have this path in front of me. I'm able pursue my career while saving money. I accept the school I’m going to no matter what anyone thinks, because I'm dedicated to an education, not an institution.