Student finds time for education, work and family
Like many things in her life, Vanessa Lopez had a plan when it came to her education.
“I knew that I didn’t want to be in school for years and years,” said Lopez, who is currently enrolled in the welding program at Washtenaw Community College. “That’s why I wanted to learn a skilled trade. I knew I could graduate and go right into the workforce.”
She is well on her way, having already earned her basic certificate in welding and is currently working towards an advanced certificate as well as an associates degree. Lopez has been able to accomplish this while going to school part-time, raising two sons and working as a lab technician at the college.
Keeping time
“I am very busy,” said Lopez, who spends twenty hours a week prepping the welding lab for students, “but it’s also a really big blessing. I’m able to go to school part-time so I still have time to spend with my kids.”
She attributes her work-life balance to the atmosphere at WCC.
“The faculty is flexible with life and with school. If they weren’t, I wouldn’t be able to be here while having my kids,” Lopez said. “Everyone at WCC wants you to graduate, they want you to get your certificate and they want you to be good at what you do. I love how much they want you to succeed.”
She believes the small class sizes and outstanding faculty at the college aid in the supportive environment.
“It’s nice to be surrounded by people who care about you,” she said. “There is a saying that you never worked a day in your life if you love what you are doing—that’s what going to school at WCC is like.”