April 24, 2014 | SharkAdmin “NVC helped me develop and find my identity… people here helped remind me who I was.” Anne-Marie Hager is a mother of two, who made the choice to return to college after a 10-year hiatus. During that time she worked several jobs in the service-industry while focusing on her family. “I felt like I needed to do something for myself,” she said. “I wanted a change.” During her first experience in college, Anne-Marie said she received little guidance from advisers. “I was just taking any class back then and there was little support, so I decided to work,” she added. While employed at a local restaurant, she explained how her co-workers mentioned they attended Northwest Vista College. Anne-Marie said this made her think, “What am I doing for myself?” With the support of her husband of 14-years and a strong desire to grow as a person, she was motivated to enroll in classes. Today, Anne-Marie is in the final stretch of earning dual degrees in Allied Health and General Studies at NVC. She plans to continue her education by enrolling in the Surgical Technology degree program at St. Phillip’s College. “I’m a hands-on learner and the medical field is where I belong,” she said, adding she likes helping people and feeling a daily sense of accomplishment. While at NVC, Anne-Marie has volunteered as a Student Ambassador participating in activities such as Wildcat Days, Blood Drives and the Psychology Club. She thanks faculty and staff, such as Darryl Nettles, Andrea Anderson, Robert DiGiovanni and Lake Stith, who encouraged her success. Anne-Marie offers the following advice to fellow students, “find out how you learn, focus on your core and don’t be ashamed of needing remedial help.” She also encourages mothers who may be considering a return to college to just do it if possible. “I have seen a positive change in myself and my family,” she said. “It took time, but I am happy to have invested in myself.” Anne-Marie plans to walk the stage this May at graduation. Are you a student, or know a student near graduation that would like to share a story on their path to graduation? Contact Manny Martinez at [email protected] or 210-486-4688.
