Michelle Jackson graduated from Reidland High School in 1996 and enrolled in college the next fall. When she got the exciting news that she was going to be a mother, Jackson decided to take time off from school to work and raise a family. But after being laid off from several jobs, Jackson knew she had to go back to college, not only to set an example for her children, but also to focus on a career and be competitive in the workforce. At age 35, Jackson was intimidated to return to college and was nervous that she wouldn’t do well. Now just two years later, Michelle is graduating with high distinction with an Associate in Applied Science degree in office system technology. Excelling academically is just one reason Jackson was selected as March Student of the Month.“I’m not sure how to put it into words of how excited I am to be recognized for March Student of the Month. As a nontraditional student, I hope to influence other adults on the importance of coming back to school and completing their education, no matter their age,” said Jackson. “And I would like to encourage students to use our campus resources, to assist them in completing their classes to the best of their ability and make the most of their college experience by joining the clubs and organizations on campus.”
The Student of the Month program is designed to recognize the accomplishments of students on campus. Individuals selected must be currently enrolled at WKCTC and have maintained a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher and are nominated on the basis of exceptional performance, personal attributes, academic excellence and active participation in various student organizational activities.
Jackson, a Marshall County resident and WKCTC sophomore, plans to continue her education in business administration following commencement next month. She has been active on campus and in the community during her time at WKCTC. She is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, TRIO Student Support Services, Art & Design Club, Exit 7 Literary Journal, and Concept Zero. With fellow WKCTC student Chelsea Rollins, Jackson was also selected for the 2014 All-USA Community College Academic Team. She volunteers for the Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center, Child Watch, and Empty Bowls Project of Paducah.
While taking classes at WKCTC, Jackson acquired a job as a work-study student, which also led to part-time employment as an administrative assistant at the Paducah School of Art and Design.
"Michelle is committed to her work and is focused in the classroom. She is mature, needs little supervision, comes prepared to class, and pushes her ideas beyond the scope of original assignments," said John Hasegawa, associate professor, Paducah School of Art and Design. Beverly Quimby, WKCTC Visual Communications program coordinator, agreed. "Michelle goes above and beyond her duties to always help other students. She is an excellent role model."
For her success at WKCTC, Jackson credits her husband, children and parents for giving her constant support and encouragement. “I also owe a special thanks to Angel Rhodes in Financial Aid, professors, mentors and motivators such as Britton Shurley, Tammy Potter, Beverly Quimby, and Liz Dodd.”
Student of the Month winners receive $100, a certificate of excellence, recognition on the WKCTC Facebook page, campus announcements and Web site. Winners are also recognized by Pepsi MidAmerica, acknowledged in the Paducah Sun, and will receive one free month’s supply of their favorite Pepsi product.