Jennifer Haines came back college at West Kentucky Community and Technical College in fall 2012 after taking several years off to work and support her family. But as her kids got older, she was tired of living paycheck to paycheck and decided getting a college degree was the only way to a better life for her and her kids. During her time at WKCTC, Haines studied hard and immersed herself in college life recently earning her the title of June Student of the Month.Haines, 31 of Lyon County, said she is completely honored and humbled to have named student of the month. “I can't even put into words how special this is to me.”
Haines graduated in May with an Associate in Arts degree. She is now working toward a bachelor's degree in computer information systems and is concurrently enrolled at WKCTC and Murray State University this fall.
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.
While at WKCTC, Jennifer has served as a student ambassador and Phi Theta Kappa and Student Government Association member. She most recently served as a lead counselor for the college’s Governor's Minority Student College Prep Program (GMSCPP) that is designed to help sixth-eighth graders focus on careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
“Jennifer serves as a role model displaying high standards of academic success, strong interpersonal skills, extreme motivation, and self-discipline,” said Chevene Duncan-Herring, WKCTC student success coach and GMSCPP assistant director.
Haines encourages other students to get involved on in college life. “The campus and volunteer experiences that I have been so fortunate to be involved in have literally shaped my life!”
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 and receive one free month’s supply of their favorite Pepsi product.