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

Right out of high school in 2009, I went straight to college. Because my priorities were not in order, I would skip classes and turn in late assignments. In the end, I eventually stopped going and ended my final semester with all failing grades since I did not withdraw from classes. That has been one of my biggest mistakes and has stuck with me ever since. Fast forward a few years, my husband and I moved to Tennessee and I became a stay-at-home mom. I knew I wanted to go back to work when my children got to be of school age, but I had no idea what I wanted to do. I also had always wanted to finish my degree, but the thought of taking out more loans just did not sit right with me. 

Eventually, I heard about the Tennessee Reconnect Grant for adult students to attend college tuition-free. Not long after, I had a conversation with my family and decided I wanted nothing more than to be a nurse. I found out I qualified for the grant and ever since then, I have worked and maintained a 4.0 at Chattanooga State. I love the example I am setting for my children and showing them that you can do anything you want with some hard work. With the help of the Tennessee Reconnect Grant, I have changed the course of my family’s future for the better and I am so grateful for this opportunity I have been given. 

Interested in learning more about Tennessee Reconnect? Attend a virtual information session at 5:30 pm on July 11,18 or 25, or 9 am on July 23. Sign up today here.