As Forward Wayne County closes out its focus on Educational Attainment, we asked Cassandra VanDevender, Career Services Specialist with IU East, to discuss higher education and some ways IU East can help students navigate their academic journey.
I was honored when I was asked to be the guest blogger for Forward Wayne County this month regarding education attainment. Growing up education was always emphasized in my family, but my parents didn’t go to college so I wondered what the next step for me should be after high school. My educational journey had many ups and downs, but I ultimately decided to attend IU Bloomington and graduated as a first-generation student in 2021. Since graduation, I have found a love for helping other students navigate their educational experience.
Figuring It All Out
Wayne County offers various opportunities for post-secondary education, including IU East where I serve as a Career Services Specialist. IU East offers an affordable, flexible degree making it the perfect fit for many first- generation students. Access to higher education may seem like it comes with many barriers, but college admission offices will help guide students through each step.
Step one is deciding if college is the right path. Recently, I was a part of the pilot for the Job Shadow Experience with the Wayne County Chamber. Part of the program’s goal was to help 8th grade students define the right career path for them. Students ended the program with an elevator pitch competition where they highlighted their future aspirations and skillset. The program started at Hagerstown and is expanding to more schools this year. Many students had college in mind, while others wanted military, short-term education options, and or direct entry into the local workforce.
Besides programs, how else can one discover career aspirations? Seek out experiences to ask professionals questions about their career, go on visits to local colleges to learn about majors, take a career assessment, and participate in career fairs. Once a person has decided what career path fits then they can seek out the educational requirements for that career. Each career may require different levels of education.
Transitioning to Post-Secondary Ed
Starting a college journey can be scary! Many universities offer assistance for a person’s journey. My parents always supported me in every way they could, but since they didn’t attend college, they were not aware of all the resources available. This meant I ultimately did not use many of the services offered to me. As students choose an educational institution it is more important to ask questions about support.
At IU East, we offer a lot of support to our students. Students take the first-year seminar (FYS) which is essentially college 101. In addition, IU East has just completed its second cohort of the Groups Scholars Program, a program aimed at increasing college attendance among first-generation, underrepresented students. Groups Scholars is a 6-week summer bridge program where students take one class in the summer before their freshman year at IU East. The program provides academic, financial, and social support to help students attain a bachelor’s degree at Indiana University East, learn more here.
Our newly formed Wellness Center focuses on all aspects of student wellness- career, accessibility, food insecurity and basic needs, social wellness through campus life, and mental health services. The Office of Student Success helps students work through challenges that can hinder their overall success. Students will be offered many supports needed to help successfully start at IU East.
Many of these services exist at different college campuses in Wayne County. So, no matter where your journey takes you, ask for help!
Post Graduation Impact
Education affords opportunities. In Wayne County, there are many first-generation IU East alumni making an impact on the betterment of our area. From small business owners to social workers to nurses. A higher education degree also increases earning potential and social mobility, or one’s ability to move up in social- economic status.
IU East ranked in the top 10 for social mobility among Midwest regional campuses in a U.S. News and World Report’s Best College rankings report in 2022. A college degree helps professionals stay connected by networking with alumni, employers, faculty, and more. It will also offer graduates more career credibility and possibly more flexibility in career choices. Overall, a four-year degree creates more space to grow personally and professionally.
Higher education attainment is a transformative journey that equips students with the tools needed to overcome challenges and navigate the professional landscape. My journey shaped who I am today- understanding the importance of community and uplifting others as they pursue an educational path. I hope to give back, share my expertise, and inspire those who dare to dream beyond their circumstances.
