Pushing for a Better Future. Meet Terry.

Monday, January 11, 2021
Terry, GCC Alumna

Terry has many notable achievements in her life; she is a first-generation high school graduate, first-generation college graduate and soon she will have her Master's degree. Her success has not been easy, however, she is where she is now because of her drive, her commitment to a better future, plus the support of her parents, husband and the faculty at GCC.

Being the youngest of six children she learned a great deal from her older siblings, especially noting the mistakes they made when it came to their not taking advantage of the education being offered. She was determined to finish high school but was unsure about college. She didn’t think the doors to college were open to people like her. “I didn’t know about FAFSA and what it was. I kinda thought college was just for rich people but once I figured out FAFSA and got financial aid, I knew college was for everyone, especially me.”

“After graduating from Alhambra High School I started attending Gateway Community College to learn how to be a respiratory tech, however, I got married had a baby and left school.” When asked about her decision to return to college she stated, “I felt in my heart that it was something I just had to do. To experience life and hold a job that I loved. I wanted to push further, not just for myself, but for my son and my husband. And I wanted to make my parents proud.”

When her son was just nine months old she decided to enroll at GCC and take classes in Social Work. “I love the environment at GCC and being around people who are interested in the same things I am and who are challenging themselves. My turning point was Intro to Psychology. The instructor was amazing. Not only the way she taught but her personal work with Street Light was so motivating.”

After receiving her AA from GCC, she went on to get her bachelor’s degree. Thanks to all the courses she took at GCC, she was able to complete her bachelor’s in a year and a half.

Terry decided on a career as a high school counselor so she can help people just like herself realize that college is for everyone. “I want to do everything I can to help high school students understand that they can do anything they want; go to college, learn a trade, anything! I don’t want people to feel closed off from their dreams.”

Currently, Terry is attending NAU where she is pursuing a Masters of Education in School Counseling. She states that Julie Morrison, GCC Psychology Faculty was essential in helping her get into NAU. “Julie went beyond, beyond to help me. I was overjoyed and humbled when she agreed to be my mentor. Julie helped me with my references, reviewed my essays, and guided me through the entire process of getting into NAU.” Terry added, “I felt so honored and Julie was one of the first people I called when I was accepted.” “I feel so blessed with all of my opportunities and now I want to give back by helping others."