My name is Sam Bailey, and I’m a student at St. Clair County Community College. I spent one semester at SC4 just out of high school 10 years ago, but I’m now a month shy of 28 and back for my fifth semester! I love being here and truly enjoy every single one of my classes.
I am a single mom of a beautiful daughter who will turn 7 in a week and is starting first grade. I love that we are in school at the same time! We do our homework together, and I feel I’m setting a good example of what hard work looks like. She is so encouraging and supportive; being a mom is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.
I am currently working toward a bachelor’s in humanities, with the intention of interpreting French. In May, I received the amazing opportunity to go to Paris with Professor Jim Frank and my class to immerse myself in French culture. It was the most incredible experience of my life! I stood atop the Eiffel tower and Notre Dame, was serenaded by a young French man, watched the sunset over Paris at Sacré-Cœur Basilica on Montmartre, ate on a corner step watching street musicians and artists, explored the art at the Orangerie, and stumbled through awesome conversations in French with super friendly Parisians. I was constantly blown away.
I also can’t speak highly enough of Monsieur Frank. He has pushed me to do things I never thought possible. He challenged the way I think about almost everything and never gave up on me, even at times when I was incredibly frustrated. I plan on taking every class he offers, hopefully including 200-level French courses. And I definitely plan on going back to Paris as soon as possible!
There have certainly been frustrating moments, but with the awesome staff in TRIO I’ve managed to get through them, earning no less than a B in every class. I can’t thank them enough — special thanks to Amy for coordinating everything and ALWAYS being at the desk with a cheerful smile and attitude, to Shawne for being an awesome, approachable advisor, and to Tiffani for being the best tutor I’ve ever had. TRIO really has some of the best people I’ve had the privilege to meet.
Here’s to another great semester! I’m already loving it and excited to keep going!
Learn more about TRIO Student Support Services at SC4.
