Tennessee Reconnect Spotlight will feature a first-person story each week...

I was accepted into the Dental Hygiene program for the class of 2024 at Chattanooga State. My first attempt at college after high school was rocky, to say the least. I had just experienced the loss of a parent at age 18 and was not taking college seriously nor did I know which type of degree I wanted to pursue. I always dreamed of going back to school for dental hygiene or nursing, but it felt like only that - a dream. After having my kids, I put my goals into action and knew college was not just a thought but something I wanted to finish for my family, myself, and especially my kids! After shadowing a few dental hygienists in our area, I immediately knew it was the program I wanted to get into and become a registered dental hygienist!

My brother inspired me to look into TN Reconnect. He used this grant to achieve his associate degree in engineering technology while also working full-time and having three kids at home! My brother has been employed by NABCO Electric Company for over ten years. I was once a failing student and now I have been accepted to an allied health program at Chattanooga State! Anything is possible when you work hard, set goals, and never give up on your dreams!

Interested in learning more about Tennessee Reconnect? Attend an information session on July 23 or 30 at 9 am; July 25, 27, 28 at 5:30 pm; or August 1 or 3 at 5:30 pm. Sign up today here.