Danielle Arias, winner of a tuition-free semester at WCC
Danielle Arias never dreamed she would win a tuition-free semester at WCC. "My uncle said to just give it a try," says the 2007 Castle High School graduate. She checked out the WCC booth at the Gabby Pahinui Kanikipila in Waimanalo on September 9 and signed up for the drawing sponsored by Student Services.
"I've always wanted to be a teacher, but college is not something my family can afford," says Arias. "When they called my name I thought, no way, you know how many names!"
Arias is making the most of her tuition-free semester. She's got a full-time class schedule and says she has the tools to keep going. "I found out that I can qualify for financial aid," says Arias.
She also discovered that she has support from a variety of sources on campus. All she had to do was ask.
Danielle qualified for TRiO – Student Support Services. As a first generation college student, she can receive tutoring services, instruction in basic study skills, and academic and personal counseling. That’s in addition to the student support services provided by the financial aid, admissions, counseling and outreach offices.
She also took advantage of the support offered by the Peer mentors support staff; they are also her student peers who assisted her in registering for her classes.
"Tuition is only one part of going to college,” says Gus Cobb-Adams, WCC recruitment specialist. "We want our students here at WCC to feel connected, supported, and nurtured. We are in the business of helping our students succeed in whatever they choose to do and it starts with a little support."
|
