Tri-County Student Receives Women's Opportunity Award

CONTACT: LISA GARRETT, EXT. 2315

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 4/14/2000
(By Lisa Garrett)

PENDLETON – Christina Smith always saw college as an impossibility.

The 29-year-old single mother of four knew an education was essential to make a better life for her and her children, yet she recalls, "I just didn't ever see that happening."

Following her divorce last year, this need for financial stability prompted her to check out Tri-County Technical College where she talked with a counselor and enrolled in Comprehensive Studies classes. She did well and soon became a full time associate degree Nursing major.

Her hard work and perseverance have paid off. She recently accepted a Women's Opportunity Award given by the Greenville chapter of the Soroptomist Club. Her first-round win gained her a much-needed $1,200 cash award. Later this month she will compete on the regional level. The Soroptomist Club promotes women's development in the community and makes women aware of scholarships and other opportunities.

"Christina's application really stood out," said Katrina Meeks, chair of the Women's Opportunity Award committee. Applicants must be female head of household and the primary supporter of dependents. All candidates must be enrolled in an undergraduate degree program or vocational/skills training program and have financial need. "Christina certainly has a need with four children, and her desire for a better life for them was evident. She wants to show them there is a better life. That came thorough very clearly in her application," said Ms. Meeks.

In addition to attending class full time and taking care of her children whose ages are10, 6, 5, and 2, she works part-time in the College's Writing Center assisting students with computer work.

She also is active in the Homemakers and Single Parents organization, designed to help participants acquire the skills training and counseling they need to become self-supporting and to enter the workforce.

The HASP program provides skills training, life skills development workshops, employment preparation and personal counseling, said Ollie Smith, who has directed the HASP program since its inception in 1985.

HASP participants also can receive financial assistance with tuition, counseling, developmental education, books and supplies.

A requirement of the program is that each participant attends the orientation session, says Ollie Smith.

"Orientation is one of the most significant services HASP provides," said Ollie Smith. "It's the most effective component of the program in improving retention of the group. It's a place where they share their concerns and become a part of the group. When they come in, they are strangers, and they are apprehensive, but we create an atmosphere of safety and trust. In one week, they form a bond and become each other's support system. Through group counseling, they become their own resource group and work together to help each other," she said.

"They learn that they're not alone in dealing with issues and problems," said Ollie Smith. "There are two things they acquire in a support group: a sense of belonging and a good sense of direction," she said.

Christina credits HASP with her newfound self-confidence. "I didn't think I was capable of doing well. But after the first semester, I saw good grades – the result of when you really put forth your best effort. I knew I had the potential to make more of myself. I quickly realized that you get back what you put into any project."

"Once they get into the group, they see it's possible that they can succeed," said Ollie Smith "They see the value of an education, and they want to continue to improve themselves and their lifestyles," she added.

"I always saw myself as a housewife, but I wanted more," said Smith. I just doubted myself. But after my first class and the HASP orientation, I realized with a little effort, I can do anything."

"Failure isn't an option for me anymore," Christina added.

She is especially proud of the positive example her return to school is setting for her children. "It teaches them confidence. When they see their mother doing well, they want to study more. I've seen them change. I'm proud to be setting an example."
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