From Juggling Jobs to Achieving Dreams

Joedonnas Bennett was juggling two jobs, trying to provide for her children, and dreaming of a better, more secure future for all of them. She realized that if things were going to change, she had to take action. She was smart enough to know that “life doesn’t have to be what you’re used to.” In other words, she knew that she had the power to change the future for herself and her children.

Deciding that education would help move her forward, Joedonnas enrolled at CCC. Once she took that first step, she was committed. She embraced every opportunity, joining TRIO-Student Support Services and participating in the Work-Based Learning program. “I chose to put my children, my education and myself first,” she said.

TRIO-SSS helps first-generation students like Joedonnas navigate college by providing academic support, help with understanding financial aid and more. Through the Work-Based Learning program, she obtained a job in CCC’s Spirit Shop. These experiences, along with the encouragement and support of faculty and staff, empowered Joedonnas to pursue her dreams despite the obstacles.

In May 2024, Joedonnas graduated with an Associate in Applied Science in Medical Office Administration. In the meantime, a full-time job opportunity at CCC became available. Joedonnas applied, was interviewed and ultimately hired. “I walked across the stage at graduation and straight into a job on Monday,” she said with a laugh. In her position as Enrollment Specialist she uses her experiences as a first-generation college student to help and encourage other students.

Even though she now has a full-time job and sees a more secure and brighter future for herself and her children, she is still learning–on the job and in the classroom. She is now working toward a second associate degree, this one in Business Administration.

Joedonnas’ journey thus far has not been easy, but she chooses to think of it as experience and gained wisdom she can share with her children and the students she meets in the Student Enrollment Center. One thing she has learned along the way is, “If you put your heart into it, if you desire it, you can do it.” She will also tell those students to ignore the people who do not support them or try to tell them they can’t succeed in college. Instead, “listen to the people who are pouring into you.”