A Head Start on Success
Lillianna Scott’s Career and College Promise Experience
Lillianna Scott is an intelligent, poised and well-spoken young woman whose college journey began as a high school student. Encouraged by friends who spoke highly of the Career and College Promise (CCP) program, Lillianna saw an opportunity she couldn’t pass up.
“I wanted to further my education for free,” she said. “I knew it would be challenging, and I wanted to push myself.”
Therefore, while a student at Shelby High School, Lillianna enrolled in college-level classes, taught by Cleveland Community College instructors, onsite at her high school. Other classes she took online.
“I love the CCC classes,” she said. “The professors are so caring, and they make learning fun.”
Through the CCP program, Lillianna earned her Associate in Science, and a Basic Healthcare Certificate, before graduating from high school. She participated in CCC’s commencement ceremony on May 14, marking the completion of her college credentials. Just weeks later, on May 29, she graduated from Shelby High School.
Now, she’s preparing for the next phase of her educational journey.
This fall, Lillianna will attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a recipient of the prestigious Morehead-Cain Scholarship, where she plans to major in biology and eventually pursue dental school. Her long-term goal is clear: to become a dentist and one day own her own practice.
By enrolling in CCP classes Lillianna knew she was getting a head start on the college credits she needs to achieve her ultimate goal but got much more than she expected. In addition to learning the subject matter, she learned good study habits and time management. She also overcame challenges and gained confidence.
Among Lillianna’s most meaningful experiences was her progression in Spanish coursework. By her senior year, she was taking her third college-level Spanish class, and the final exam required a live Zoom interview conducted entirely in Spanish.
“When I first started the class, I thought, ‘I can’t do that.’” But by the end of the course, she surprised herself. Her Spanish instructor, Rebecca Sisk, played a significant role in that growth, helping her develop both skill and confidence in the language. During the final, she said, “I felt confident, and when my instructor told me how well I did, I felt really proud.”
As Lillianna prepares for the next chapter, she carries with her the knowledge, experience, and confidence gained through the Career and College Promise program. With a strong foundation and a clear sense of direction, she is ready to continue pursuing her goals.