Working in the fields at a young age picking berries for hours, in the hot sun, rain, and sometimes late evening, dreaming about being a nurse, a teacher, a career that would allow me to provide for myself and my family someday sometimes seemed like a dream that would be hard to accomplish. Being the eldest of nine children, my motivation for attending and staying in college was not only to make my parents proud but to also be a role model for my younger siblings. I reached the goal that both my parents desired to achieve when growing up, but college wasn’t an option for them at the time. Thanks to my parents’ encouragement, and immense sacrifice and dedication to ensure my success in my education, I was the first in my family to attend college and graduate. Attending college with no guidance was quite the adventure but I learned many things along the way and met many amazing people that inspired me to continue to push forward, has led me to my current position as Lower Columbia College Running Start Director.
Being a first-generation college student means a lot of things to me as this accomplishment not only represents my family, but represents my dreams of having a better life, and giving back to all those who believed in me. My advice to other first-generation students is to never give up on your dreams, even when things seem hard and impossible.
I like working at LCC as it gives me the opportunity to give back to my community and continue to learn and grown, all while supporting students and helping them get closer to their goals.
Learn more about Running Start
I was the first person (in my family) to finish high school, and the first one to go to college - and I did it in another country, and in a different language.
My family back at home are proud, but I did it for my kids here so I could provide a better future for them.
(Attending LCC) meant staying home! Being a single mom of two boys - at that time - it meant that I could spend more time with them instead of traveling to/from places. School, work study, daycare, and later a full-time position were all here.
The sense of belonging has been there since the first day I walked in as a student. There are great people working here that make it home.
Learn more about Health Careers at LCC
Learn more about Advising
Being a first generation college graduate has been a source of pride for me and my family. I had to navigate uncharted waters and face unfamiliar academic environments and processes. I didn't really understand the challenges that I faced that were unique to my situation until I started working at LCC and saw the advantages that non-first generation students had over first generation students. My college education has allowed me to have a rewarding career here at LCC!
Going to LCC allowed me to pursue and complete my degree in Business Management. I've been able to have a very rewarding career at LCC due to these opportunities. In turn, I have been able to support students through my work efforts and providing support to the LCC Foundation to better our community.
Working at LCC allows me to support students through my work efforts and provide them support through the LCC Foundation. It's important to me that my work efforts go toward bettering our community.
Learn more about the LCC Foundation
I moved to Longview from the greater Los Angeles area to purse my career in Nursing. I chose LCC after a Google search for best community colleges in the PNW. At LCC, both in my prerequisite courses and in the nursing program, I felt truly seen, supported and valued by my instructors. As a single mom with a dream to provide for her child, I had an uphill battle to fight when I started over and moved 1,000 miles away from any support I knew. I was successful at LCC, then went on to get my Bachelor's and PhD in nursing and have since returned to work at LCC in the nursing program to give back and support dreamers as I was supported. There are many avenues a PhD can take, and choosing LCC is the best choice I have ever made. LCC means so much to me; it is truly a second home.
LCC has the most welcoming community-vibe I have ever experienced in a workplace. Everyone is friendly, cooperative, and genuinely wants the best for our students, our faculty and staff, and our community. The support you receive here as an employee is astounding.
Learn more about Nursing
Being the first in my family to go to college was hard (like I didn't know what I was doing at all). But, once I connected with the college resources, started getting involved on campus in clubs and organizations, and developed a plan for myself, I thrived in college. I cannot emphasize enough how impactful getting involved in campus was on my college experience.
I came to LCC as a Running Start student. LCC was an opportunity to get more flexibility in my schedule, save money on college classes, and help figure out what I wanted to do for a career. It was a great way to get a head start on college.
I love working at LCC because there is a clear sense of what the college mission is throughout the work all employees do. Having worked at other colleges, this is a goal all of them work to achieve, but LCC is living it.
Learn more about Student Activities
(As the first person in my family to attend college), I had no understanding of all of the opportunities that could be found through schooling.
I found an entire new path in love through LCC. I came in looking at a completely different course plan, before finding what would be my perfect career. Two quarters in, Allan Evald introduced me to welding and I immediately changed my path.
I couldn’t imagine my life any different. LCC gave me so much and I have made an effort through my trades career to give back. Material donations, speaking to classes, trades events and finally teaching. I love welding and without LCC I would have never found it.
My students are the best and the teams we have supporting them are the best. We are a team working towards the same goal, student success.
Learn more about Welding
Forging this new path has broadened the horizons for my children and brought them stability beyond what I could provide in the past.
Coming to LCC brought a sense of community to my life and made me feel like I was part of something. A member to a family I never knew I needed. The support I found at the entry center from Jenny Smith was amazing! She guided me through so many tricky processes that I had never been through before.
The tutors in the learning center were amazing and my instructors held me accountable and taught me the importance of routines and deadlines. All of this helped me find my balance and stability.
I love being here to support students in the way I needed support when I came here. I love seeing our students succeed in the face of adversity and overcome insurmountable obstacles to persevere and graduate. I haven't missed a graduation ceremony since I have been working here.
Learn more about Workforce Education
As a first generation college student, I was missing a lot of information about how to be successful in college and didn’t have family to turn to for help. I initially struggled with learning how to navigate and find a career path.
Through mentorship, advising and peer support, I built confidence and knowledge to achieve my educational and personal goals. A college degree opened up so many doors for me and my family, and inspired me to help others who are also first generation students.
I value the innovation of our faculty and staff and the college's deep commitment to student success.
Learn more about Student Resources and Services
Earning a degree from LCC has allowed me to do work that I truly love.
Right out of school I found employment out in industry ranging from maintenance machinist to CNC programmer.
Now I am back as an instructor passing on my knowledge to the next generation of skilled professionals.
Lower Columbia College strengthens the local community. I feel fortunate to be able to help others along their journey of self-improvement.
Learn more about Machine Trades
Learn more about Computer Numerical Control
Learn more about Manufacturing, Trades and Transportation
I was an older student when I decided to begin my college education. Neither of my parents attended college. As terrifying as this was, I found connections on campus. Other students taking the same classes and instructors that were more than willing to work with me and offered support during the most uncertain of times. I felt welcomed and encouraged every step of the way.
Attending Lower Columbia College offered flexibility to myself and my family. Relocation or long commutes were eliminated by seeking education close to home. The flexibility of in person or online classes offered further flexibility allowing for family time along with studying and attending classes. Due to school/work conflicts, I sought a position on campus as work study. The work study position evolved into a permanent position. With a degree, I was able to improve my employment to better support my family.
The best aspect of my position is being an advocate for students stepping into the unknown world of higher education. I can walk students through processes foreign to them and help find supports as needed through Financial Aid, Advising, Tutoring, Employment Services, and many more obstacles encountered.
Learn more about the One-Stop Center
I entered the workforce as a MIG/TIG Welder after graduating from high school because my high school guidance counselor told me that college wasn't for me.
I became the first person in my family to attend college when I enrolled at Butler Community College in Kansas. I later transferred to Pittsburgh State University, where I earned a Bachelor's Degree. I subsequently earned a Master's Degree from Wichita State University, a second Bachelor's Degree from Newman University, and a Ph.D. from Kansas State University.
I've worked as a K-12 teacher, a community college adjunct faculty member, an instructor/academic advisor, professor, associate department chair, dean and provost of a university.
I was overjoyed to become President of LCC in January 2024. It is the culmination of everything I've done and want to do in higher education. I'm excited about the opportunities, collaboration, innovation and partnerships that we're building for the greater good of Longview and beyond.
Learn more about College Leadership
Being a first generation college student means that I had more opportunities than my parents did. My parents taught me the value of education from a young age, and they encouraged me to pursue higher education. My own children have now watched me complete graduate school, and my husband and I are also teaching them the value of education. I'm grateful that my parents encouraged me to attend college and for the opportunities given to me because of higher education.
I love the friendly, supportive community at LCC. Everyone I've worked with seems to genuinely love their job and wants to see students succeed.
Learn more about Arts, Communication and Humanities
LCC was a great opportunity for me to be able to complete my two year degree while in High School. The Running Start program made college more affordable.
I enjoy making a difference in my own community. It is amazing to be able to see LCC transform lives of people that we see each and everyday throughout our community.
Learn more about Science, Technology, Enginnering and Math
Learn more about LCC Athletics
Being a first generation college student can be difficult because your family doesn't comprehend what college entails. Your success as a college grad gives confidence to your siblings and cousins that college is possible and to go for their dreams.
I took my prerequisites for my Bachelor of Science in nursing at LCC as the first step of becoming a nurse educator. Being able to take classes close to home made the educational process easier. You can still find me playing in the bands from time to time.
I love to watch the growth in students as they realize their capabilities. It is gratifying to see students from lower socioeconomic statuses realize they have the ability to accomplish their dreams. Watching nursing students go from "what am I doing" to "I know what I am doing" brings a smile to my heart and soul. I love helping students who are first generation realize that they are capable of achieving their dreams. We can make a difference in our community by helping others believe in themselves.
Learn more about Nursing
Being a first-generation college student has been a source of pride for me and my family. This journey has not only transformed my own life but also has inspired hope, and instilled a sense of possibility within my family, illustrating the power of education to uplift and empower generations to come.
Lower Columbia College was more than just an educational institution; it was a place that felt like home. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I was enveloped by a sense of belonging and support. The faculty and staff prioritized my well-being and growth as a person, fostering an environment where I felt valued and understood. They recognized me not just as a student, but as an individual with unique aspirations and challenges. Whether through academic guidance, emotional support, or simply lending a listening ear, LCC embraced me with warmth and encouragement, making my educational journey feel like a seamless extension of my personal development.
Working at LCC is a fulfilling experience for me because it feels like coming back to a second home after earning my degree here. The sense of community is palpable, and it's heartwarming to see how people remember and care about each other's well-being. Contributing to helping individuals achieve their dreams adds a profound meaning to my work, fostering a rewarding atmosphere of support and growth.
Learn more about Nursing
Read more employee stories here!
My memories of LCC begin as a four year old, tagging along with my dad who was a tenured Welding Faculty member here for 25 years. When it came time to go to college myself, I wasn't excited about "staying home" and going to LCC, but this campus has been a gift to me in all seasons. It didn't take long to accept where I was and to reap the benefits of education here; community colleges really are gems in our society, and the staff and faculty who choose this path as opposed to the university really do "make" the atmosphere and experience.
I grew up here, so I hesitated to "stay." However, collaborating with peers across the country has revealed to me that LCC truly has an innovative spirit where visionaries are able to experiment for the sake of students, and new ideas can flourish with support. It's a place to fail toward success. I am so grateful for the relationships and the memories that have been formed here, and I hope we can continue to be a campus that embraces all of our new students and hires so that they too can experience a positive season at LCC, no matter how long their season lasts.
It never occurred to me that I would not go to college after high school. While my parents did not have a college education, they supported my decision to continue my education. We did not have money, but I was determined to do what I needed to earn my degrees. Thankfully, between grants, working on campus and loans, I will able to work my way through graduate school. Now I do what I enjoy as a career, rather than being limited.
I enjoy being at LCC due to the support I receive from other faculty and administration, as well as time with the students and seeing their accomplishments.
Learn more about Social Science and Criminal Justice
Being a first-generation college student, I've not only been able to provide for my children but also continued to achieve educational milestones while they were young. With college I was able to show them what determination, hard-work, and perseverance looks like. I also gained the skills, knowledge, and resources I will need to guide them on their own college paths in the future.
I love that LCC really embraces the word community. Not only does campus feel like a family, LCC is great at collaborating with students and businesses in Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties to ensure we are meeting the needs of our community!
Learn more about Education
Being the first person in my family to attend college was definitely a challenge for me. My parents fully supported my decision, but they didn't have the background to help me through many of the college requirements, such as completing a FAFSA, registering for classes, and figuring out how to juggle life commitments with college. I definitely learned how to ask for help when I was stuck. I started college almost 40 years ago now, and I still deal with sarcastic comments from some of my family members about my choice to attend college. I reassure myself and them that I'm not better than them for having graduated from college; I just made different choices in life. I have never regretted those choices. I am proud and amazed at the many ways having a college degree has given me career options and expanded my world view.
I love supporting students who have made the life-changing decision to attend college. Focusing on improving current academic skills to make a difference in future lives makes this "job" meaningful every day.
Learn more about Arts, Communication and Humanities
Attending college has endowed me with the capacity to secure a rewarding professional position where my expertise is highly esteemed.
LCC stands out as an ideal educational institution, offering an environment characterized by a sufficient scale to furnish the resources essential for success while maintaining a size that enables instructors to provide personalized attention and assistance with the curriculum.
Working at LCC affords me the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the community in which I reside, allowing me to be recognized and esteemed for the valuable contributions I bring to my office.
After having watched my mom return back to college (LCC) after having my sister and I at a young age, I realized that college was more than just pursuing a degree; it was about laying the groundwork for a better future. LCC provided me all the resources and tools I needed to be successful no matter how many times I changed my degree (because I certainly did not know what I wanted to be when I got older). The college community here at LCC allowed me to meet so many amazing people along my journey, both staff/faculty and students, that to this day I’m still inspired. I’m proud to be LCC alum!
Now I get to bring my LCC alum experience to my current position here as a Student Financial Specialist 1. The opportunity to guide a student on their journey through college and to be a resource during their time here at LCC gives me a chance to give back to this community and it’s very rewarding.
Learn more about Tuition and Fees
Growing up in a low income household, I did not think college would be possible for me. LCC's Running Start Program provided a way for me to get my Associates Degree at very low cost, while still attending high school. LCC was more than a college to me while attending, it was practically my home. I spent many late nights in computer labs doing homework and studying, in the Rose Center practicing for choir concerts and at Dance Club rehearsal, and at the wonderful LCC events offered to students. I am happy to be an LCC alum.
I love working for the organization that supported me in the beginning of my journey in higher education. I love being a part of a mission to support students who are just like me.
My family has expressed how proud they are of me for being the first to attend and graduate from college. I have always felt supported and encouraged by all staff that I conversed with while attending LCC. From the very beginning of not knowing where to start to graduation and beyond, I continually feel supported and encouraged through my work here at LCC Head Start.
After being a stay at home mom for many years, I needed to enter the workforce and did not know how to do that. Through a community class that was offered, I was supported in finding out which direction would best suite me regarding courses and degree options. Every conversation and task that was presented was individualized around my goals and myself as a person. I have always felt supported and valued as an individual which is what supported me through my education.
I always feel supported and valued working at LCC. I enjoy seeing my old professors around campus and receiving warm hello's from them after not seeing them for years. I feel remembered, valued, and welcome.
As a first generation college student the experience has lead me to encourage my sons to continue their learning. I firmly believe it is never too late to make college a part of your goals.
I have returned to LCC several times over the years to continue my education. I have earned two Associate's degrees which helped me to have a successful career in local businesses. Later I returned to college life and earn a Bachelor’s degree in Education.
Working at LCC has given me the opportunity to bring my previous education and work experience full circle. I absolutely LOVE helping students on their educational journey and watching their growth and success!
Learn more about College and Career Preparation
My entire family worked blue collar, physical, or hard labor jobs for generations. Being the first in my family to attend college was both eye opening and confusing. The opportunities college has provided me has enabled me to live a more comfortable and less stressful life compared to my family members' experiences.
I love helping students reach their goals and seeing those of similar background to me find success in life.
Learn more about Library Services
I started my first classes at the age of 32 at LCC and was a first-generation student. It meant a lot for me to be able to attend LCC. My attending college and earning my nursing degree, set the stage to show the importance to our sons, and I could say "look mom can do this, you can too." Now both our sons are LCC graduates and continued on for advanced degrees. As for my path I have been a Nurse Educator at LCC for over 20 years and am thankful for all that LCC has given myself and my family.
Attending a local college was very important to me. I was unable to attend college outside of the area and LCC provided the education that I needed to start my career. LCC has always been a local resource for me as I have grown my professional development skills. The Lower Columbia region is very lucky to have a college that works with the community to provide growth opportunities for its community members.
The willingness to support each other is what stands out to me (about working at LCC). Whenever I reach out for assistance several people respond, and we work together to find solutions and answers. This is the type of environment that I want to be a part of.
Learn more about Workforce Programs
(Attending) LCC opened doors for many opportunities. I was hired by the LCC Early Learning Center after I graduated. The job allowed me to get my start in a field that I love.
The best part of my job is working, teaching, and learning with the students I serve. I appreciate the support from my dean, the union, and I-BEST support for the students. I love that LCC works hard to help all students feel welcome!
Learn more about Education
I had two young kids and was working a fast-food job I hated. I decided I wanted more, so I enrolled at LCC. It took me a few years to complete my degree, but I did it!
(As a student at LCC), I felt very comfortable with my instructors and my advisors. I was part of TRiO, and that was a great experience. My kids were at my graduation, and that meant a lot to me. They were very excited to see me graduate.
(After I started working at LCC), I love how we became a family. Most of the people who work here are very welcoming and I have made genuine friendships from my coworkers.
Learn more about WorkFirst
Education can become the means for the proletariat to escape the means they were borne into, a difficult task in an aesthetically mobile system, but realistically finite.
Being surrounded by community members, and those who may have had more barriers to education themselves, allowed me to feel greater comfort, allowance to make mistakes, and perseverance within these mistakes during my time as a student, and now as a staff member at LCC.
LCC is not solely focused on its monetary gain; an occurrence rare in a society riddled with the cancerous mindset of infinite growth and expansion. LCC truly listens and maintains conversation with its community due to the loyalty of those reared within and outside the system, appreciative of its role, and dedicated to supporting the community's growth, rather than dictating or controlling said growth. I am infinitely grateful to have found a role in such an institution, an institution that did shove me down and expect me to prove myself by getting back up; but rather one that lent a hand when necessary, understanding that everyone needs a social safety net.
I came from a poverty family and college was not in the plan. In 2003, I decided to check out LCC and they made it so easy to feel accomplished in a path forward. They found ways to make it possible. I was able to get my associate degree at LCC and continue on to get my Bachelor's degree online without hesitation due to the skills & confidence I had gotten from LCC. I was not a first time graduate from my family but I did pull my family from a cycle of living in poverty. My husband & now daughter will all be joining with the LCC Alum Family.
LCC has been my home away from home since I started work study in 2003. I graduated in 2007 and started officially working as an employee August of 2007 for the LCC Headstart program. In all the changes over 20 years, LCC is still my "Other" home and a consistent in my life & my family's.
Learn more about Head Start
(As the first person in my family to attend college), I was able to trailblaze a path for my brother and others in my family in pursuing a college education.
(As a student), LCC was my second home. I was able to earn a degree, play a college sport, and make life-long friends here on campus. I have encouraged many family members to attend; including my brother, father, husband, and two children. LCC Proud!
There are a core group of LCC faculty and staff who have a passion for this college and community and it shows in their daily interactions with students.
Learn more about College and Career Preparation
Though I did have family members that attended some coursework at LCC, I was the first person in my family to graduate from LCC and continue on to graduate with a 4 year degree. When I graduated from high school, I wasn't "ready" to move away and go to a 4-year college immediately and decided to stay local and earn my AA here first. This ended up being a blessing in so many ways. The greater diversity and quality of education I received here prepared me to seek my bachelor's degree at WSU-Vancouver while still working.
Soon after graduating LCC and while attending WSU, the Great Recession hit and the job market as a new graduate looked a lot different than promised while seeking my degree. However, I was in a much better place financially than many of my other graduates. My classes gave me the flexibility to work and have experiences that many other applicants didn't have. I was also without the crippling debt. Times were hard, however, with scholarships and paying for books with my work income, I only had to finance one semester of my 4 year degree with student loans. Many of my contemporaries are still paying those debts, and I am so grateful for the start I got at LCC.
Learn more about Tuition and Fees
I wanted to leave the place where I grew up and I realized that the best way out was to attend college and pursue my dreams. I did...and I have no regrets about my chosen path.
Having been employed (and even tenured) at other institutions, what I appreciate about LCC is that it seems like a family in some ways. There is a friendliness and a camaraderie here that is very welcoming, unlike some of the places I've taught where competition and mutual distrust (and subsequent dysfunction) is the prevailing way of work.
Being a first generation college graduate gave hope to my younger sister. She saw me succeed after years of hard work and saw the benefits that came with having a college education in regards to employment and salary. It was also something both parents strived for even though neither were alive to see it come to fruition for me.
Learn more about College and Career Preparation
I attended at PCC after I immigrated to the United States from Germany. I had taken English for 7 years in Germany and was familiar with the language, but learning to do assignments on the computer was a challenge as I did not have a computer or lap top when I first started college. I could not afford it. I really appreciated all of the help from the tutoring lab! My mother-in-law still reminds me how proud she is that I graduated with honors with a Bachelor Degree when English wasn't my second language. One of my English teachers gave me a lot of encouragement when I turned in writing assignments. My grades in English were actually better than in German believe it or not. The last 2 years of Gymnasium (high school) in Germany were hard, but I gained a lot of skills, which prepared me for studying at a community college. My parents only had a 7th and 8th grade education. So, I was on my own figuring out assignments when I was at the Gymnasium. I was the first one in my family to go straight to college after high school while my uncle and cousin attended trade school or other programs before going on to higher education.
I work with a group of caring individuals at LCC Head Start/EHS/ECEAP. My supervisor is very supportive and I love connecting with children, families and staff.
I started college here in 1994 and a few years later both of my parents went to school at LCC. My dad graduated here at 69 years old. He worked in Campus Services and the Auto/Diesel lab until he retired at age 82. My mom went on to get her Masters in Counseling and works for the Kelso School District.
Attending LCC helped me gain the skills I needed to further my education. From LCC, I transferred to WSU - Vancouver & graduated with my BA in Human Development in 2005. In 2014, I graduated with my Masters in Public Administration from Kaplan University. At LCC, I built the foundation I needed to move up in education and employment.
LCC feels like home. The staff and faculty really care about students and their educational pathways!
Learn more about WorkFirst
Before my mom passed away, she told me how much she believed in my chances at success and wanted me to return to college. It was a long road but I kept my promise to her and I was able to show my children that anything is possible through hard work and perseverance.
I really love working with such a diverse group of people and I love being part of a community that genuinely cares so much about students.
Learn more about the Testing Center
(Working at LCC provides me with) the opportunity to change lives.