Connecting with Students

After nearly a decade away from college, Jerome Connor returned to Gaston College determined to complete his degree, but he wasn’t sure if he would really fit in as a non-traditional student.

 

As a student, Connor wanted to build a better future for himself and his family, and he knew it started with his education. He said that Gaston helped him develop strong study habits and time management skills and build the confidence he needed to continue his education. He graduated from Gaston College in 2015 with an associate degree in general education, and then continued his education at Belmont Abbey College, earning a bachelor’s degree in educational studies in 2017.

 

Connor credits Gaston with getting him off to a great start and providing the opportunity to explore potential career paths. After completing his bachelor’s degree, he began to consider how he could give back to the college that helped launch his academic and professional journey.

 

Returning as a staff member in 2019, Connor found it meaningful to work at the college that had played such a significant role in his life. He now connects with prospective students every day as the Student Outreach and Recruitment Coordinator, and he often hears similar stories from students who return to college years later, refocused and motivated to earn their degree.

 

“I remember what it was like to wonder what I was going to do after high school,” Connor said. “I like sharing my story, including the struggles I faced and how I worked through them, because I want students to know they can succeed, too.”

 

Seeing someone take the leap to enroll in College reminds Connor why his role is vital to the college.

 

“It’s rewarding to help students take that first step, because I know how much that first step changed my own life,” Connor said.

 

Most recently, Connor advanced his own education once again, receiving his master’s degree in organizational leadership, which has provided him with tools to support student success better and strengthen his approach to teamwork and leadership.

 

His current role as an alum and staff member makes it easy to connect with other graduates, and he can’t help but radiate Rhino pride when he meets other alums who share the same college spirit. He enjoys hearing positive memories and the pride in their education that so many other alums have about their time at Gaston.

 

If you know a prospective student who would be interested in learning more about Gaston College and taking a tour, direct them Connor’s way. His goal is to help more people see that college is possible, and that Gaston College offers support and resources for everyone, no matter their starting point.