This degree is more than just a paper that I’ll hang on the wall—it is the first and only educational degree I have received in my life, beyond my GED. It gives me a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem knowing that I have achieved something worthwhile. More importantly, this degree will open doors for me. It will provide me with opportunities to advance in life, furthering either my education or job prospects.

Through the process of studying, I’ve become more disciplined and structured. I was forced to learn how to develop time management skills in order to maximize my study time and complete homework. By learning different subjects in arts and humanities—such as history, philosophy, literature, and world religions—my worldview has expanded. 

I have gained more empathy and understanding and have become more appreciative of human conditions. I realized what it means to be human—a good human.

The first challenge was to overcome myself. When I first began this journey of higher education in 2020, I was overwhelmed by the thought of my workload—the writing, homework, and the amount of reading. I dreaded the prospect of these difficult tasks. To overcome these fears, I spent more time studying and writing in the study hall, accessing support from MTC tutors.

The next challenge was to find the time within my busy schedule to study, and a place to do it. Writing was particularly challenging because I don’t have a table in my prison cell. I was on the top bunk, so writing was decidedly difficult, and my cellmate was always present. The study hall was not always open during the times I wanted to do my work. I overcame these challenges by making time to study whenever possible and working more at home.

My most meaningful experiences at MTC were the interactions I had with faculty members. Throughout the years I have spent at MTC, I was fortunate to meet many talented and inspirational faculty. They are professional and good at what they do. My interactions with them instilled in me a sense of purpose and direction, and they inspired in me the passion for higher education and volunteerism. I am very appreciative of their work and am moved by their selfless acts, because it shows me that there are still good people in the world and that they care. They softened my cynicism toward people and encouraged me to also work, in any small capacity, toward the betterment of humanity.

Now that I have completed my AA degree, my next goal is to obtain a BA degree. Until then, I will continue to participate in the coding program, The Last Mile, and do MTC voluntary work!