West Hills College Lemoore has been a source of inspiration and motivation for many students, but none more so than Theresa Steele. After watching her children and grandchildren attend college, Steele was inspired to go back to school and continue her education. Despite not having a high school diploma, Steele found a welcoming environment at West Hills College Lemoore, where she has been pursuing her GED and Associate Degrees simultaneously.
Steel faced many challenges, including a history of foster care and addiction recovery, but has persevered and excelled in her studies. She is studying to earn an AA degree in Liberal Arts and Social Sciences and is also working towards her GED. Her goal is to become a probation officer and work with at-risk youth in her community.
Steele's journey back to education started with a conversation at her dinner table. "My family discussed what was happening in their lives during dinner time,” Steele said. “They were all enrolled in college at West Hills and had plans. My daughter encouraged me to enroll in college too. I thought that since I wasn’t working and had the time, at least I would have something to discuss at the dinner table. It turns out going back to school was the best decision I ever made."
Steele's determination to succeed has been aided by the supportive environment at West Hills College Lemoore. The faculty and staff have been instrumental in helping her navigate the challenges of college life and pursue her goals. She credits the EOPS program for providing her with supplies, tutoring, and testing assistance and for helping her with class schedules.
“The EOPs resources have assisted me and helped provide me with what I’ve needed to succeed,” said Steele. “My counselor is understanding and helped me stay on track to graduate.”
Steele has found a sense of belonging and purpose at West Hills College Lemoore. She enjoys volunteering at the college and is often found helping other students. “I’ve always wanted to work with youth,” Steele said. “Being a foster child myself, I know what challenges are like. I feel good, helping other students at West Hills. Many here call me ‘grandma T’. It feels good to volunteer, give back, and have other students look up to me.”
Steele's desire to make her family proud and her hope of one day working for the Department of Justice are strong motivating factors. Additionally, the support and encouragement from the faculty and staff at West Hills College Lemoore have been essential to Steele's success. West Hills College Lemoore President James Preston has been a source of such support during her years at the college.
"I want to make Mr. Preston proud,” Steele said. “I've told him I don't know if I can do this, and he's said yes, you can, and when you do, I'll take you to lunch."
The supportive environment at West Hills College Lemoore has been crucial to Steele's journey back to education. She believes that college has helped her become the person she is today. The faculty and staff have been instrumental in guiding her and helping her succeed. "The staff and faculty here are amazing,” said Steele. “They care about you as a person, not just a student. They want to see you succeed and will do everything they can to help you."
Steele is looking forward to the possibility of walking in this spring's graduation ceremony with her grandson, who will also be earning his AA. It will be a momentous occasion for her and something she is truly excited about. "It's something I've always wanted to do, and I never thought I would have the chance. I'm so grateful for this opportunity."
Steele's story is a testament to the power of education and a supportive environment’s impact on a student's success. Despite facing challenges and obstacles, she has persevered and is well on her way to achieving her dreams. Her journey serves as an inspiration to others who may be facing similar circumstances.
West Hills College Lemoore is committed to providing a supportive environment for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances. The college offers a range of programs and services to help students achieve their educational goals, including GED preparation and college classes.
As Steele continues her journey, she is grateful for the support and encouragement she has received from the West Hills College Lemoore community. "I couldn't have done this without them," she said. "They have helped me become the person I am today, and I am so grateful for that."
Steele's story is an inspiration to all those who face obstacles and challenges in pursuing their dreams. Her dedication and commitment to education have brought her this far, and she is well on her way to achieving her goals. West Hills College Lemoore has played a vital role in her success, providing a supportive environment that has helped her thrive. Her story is a testament to the power of education and the importance of a supportive community in helping students achieve their goals.
