Though she has had to overcome adversity, being diagnosed with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at a young age, she has never stopped striving to achieve her dream of teaching. That determination and her passion for helping others has driven her to be a successful student at West Kentucky Community and Technical College, and just two of the reasons why she was recently selected as the college’s November Student of the Month.
“I feel very grateful and blessed to have been chosen Student of the Month,” said the 23-year-old Livingston County resident. “Attending WKCTC has changed my life; it has taught me that even though the road may get bumpy, just hold on tight and keep going because there is always the light at the end of the tunnel.”
Since she began taking classes at WKTC in 2012, Tracy credits many services on campus with helping her be successful. She is especially thankful to the college’s TRIO Student Support Services.
“Since I have been at the college, I have noticed how much I have progressed, and there is no doubt that everyone in TRIO has helped me get to where I am today.”
Tracy has worked as a student worker in the payroll office on campus, served as a volunteer for nonprofit organizations such as Hope's Clinic and CASA, and supported organizations such as Starfish Ministry, Ronald McDonald's House, New Pathways for Children.
Studying early childhood education at WKCTC, Tracy is set to graduate an associate in arts degree and teachers aid certificate in spring 2017. She plans to transfer to Murray State University to continue her education and earn her teaching credentials.
Tracy said she wants to set a good example, and hopes to be an inspiration to help others believe in themselves - no matter what obstacles they may face in life.
“Along with my family and friends, everyone at this college has been right there to pick me up and helped me to never lose sight of my dreams,” Tracy said. I want to encourage others to ‘always believe in yourself, always do your best, and always have faith....you can do it.’ ”
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.
Student of the Month recipients receive $100, a certificate of excellence, recognition on the WKCTC Facebook page, campus announcements and Web site. Recipients are also recognized by Pepsi MidAmerica and receive one free month's supply of their favorite Pepsi product.