DCCC First-Gen Spotlights
Contact Information
Office of First-Generation Student Success
Marple Campus
Academic, 2333-2334 (Around corner from Art Gallery)
Hours:
Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Additional daytime and evening hours available by appointment.
Phone: 610-359-5325
Email: firstgen@dccc.edu
Follow us on Instagram: @DCCCFIRSTGEN
Simone A. Richardson, MS, CRC- Director of Disability Services
I was raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and I am a proud Jamaican American with roots in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, a rural parish on Jamaica's western side. Growing up education was a cornerstone of my upbringing, instilled by my parents, who, despite not attending college themselves, encouraged me to pursue higher education. I recall summers spent in class as my mom required me to attend summer school, even though I was an honor roll student. She always said that the “cobwebs would creep in if I stayed outside of the classroom too long.”
I was also inspired by a memorable 4th grade field trip to a basketball game at Penn State. As silly as it sounds, from that point, I made it my goal to attend Penn State. I also chose to attend the university because it was close to my hometown but far enough away to provide a new environment for me to explore. Throughout high school, I challenged myself academically by taking several honors courses and participating in dual enrollment studies at St. Joseph University while also working part-time at the King of Prussia Mall.
I was in the top 10 percent of my graduating class in high school and was able to accomplish my goal of attending Penn State. However, I had no clue what was ahead of me for this new journey. Navigating the unfamiliar territory of college life, coupled with the personal loss of my brother and grandfather, presented significant challenges. Despite the adversities I faced with losing my closest relatives, moving often, and facing poverty, I remained focused on my educational goals.
After earning my bachelor's degree (double major) in Behavioral Health & Health Policy and Administration, I gained valuable experience working as a Traumatic Brain injury Specialist and a Director of Child Care Support. Recognizing my passion for rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities, I decided to further my education and pursued a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, balancing my academic pursuits with caring for my mother.
The journey was never easy. I cried, I struggled, I experienced many losses, but I still rose above those challenges. My experiences (both personal and professional) have shaped me into a dedicated professional committed to supporting individuals with disabilities. My students are a constant source of strength and the driving force behind my work, they teach me so much. They may not realize it, but their presence in my life has significantly enriched me in a variety of ways. I want them to know how much they mean to me and how valuable they are to our communities.
The First Gen Office via DCCC
The First-gen office provides invaluable support to first-generation students and the entire DCCC community. As a first-gen student myself, I wish I had been aware of these resources during my time in school. Many students may not realize the benefits available to them.
My experience working with the First-gen office has shown me how instrumental they are in helping numerous students, especially those who may be navigating college on their own. They offer guidance, resources, and a sense of community that can make a significant difference in a first-gen student's success.
Motivation and Advice to First Gen Students
My advice (to students) is to find your tribe (friends, family, etc.), as we thrive better as a community. Also, seek help when needed, we (the College) are here to support you, study diligently, and stay focused on your goals. Today's challenges can shape tomorrow's triumphs. My journey hasn't been perfect, but it has given me the courage to continue working tirelessly for my students, ensuring they have a fulfilling educational experience.
Taken from “Still I Rise”- Maya Angelou
Out of history’s shame, I rise.
Up from a past that’s rooted in pain, I rise.
I’m an ocean, leaping and wide…
Welling and swelling I bear in the tide…
Leaving behind the nights of terror and fear, I rise…
Into a daybreak that’s wonderful and clear, I rise…
...Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and the hope of the slave. I rise!
First-generation Recognition Award recipient - Amy Pavone Ginter
I live in Newtown Square, PA and am currently enrolled in the Medical Coding and Billing Certificate Program at Delaware County Community College (DCCC). I am in my second year and focused on gaining the skills and knowledge needed to excel in my field. DCCC has provided me with great opportunities to grow both academically and personally. As a first-generation student, I was greeted to a welcoming environment that provided me with a plan to reach my educational goals. The First-Generation Office has offered me continued support in navigating the campus resources offered and has continued to guide me in the positive direction needed towards accomplishing my educational goals.
Some advice to my fellow first-generation students is to stay organized, manage your time, engage in class, explore opportunities, be open to change and seek help when needed. Most importantly, prioritize your physical and mental health. Connect with classmates and professors, and seek out mentors that will provide you with a support system to help you stay focused on your own personalized educational goals.
“Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom.”
-George Washington Carver
Melissa M. Joarder, Professor of English
After earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English from the University of Delaware and Temple University, Melissa has been a full-time English professor at Delaware County Community College since 2003. She enjoys teaching a variety of composition and literature courses in person at the Downingtown campus and online. She lives in West Chester with her husband, two sons, and four chickens. Her hobbies include reading and making beaded jewelry.
Melissa M. Joarder's First-Generation Story:
As a freshman at the University of Delaware, television was my only frame of reference for college. However, enjoying A Different World did not prepare me to understand that the “TR” on my schedule meant both Tuesday and Thursday meetings, much less how to manage the workload for five courses while holding down a work-study job during the week and making pizzas at Domino’s on the weekends. I can remember apologizing to my professors for bothering them during office hours, and being forced to retire my electric typewriter and finally learn to use the computer lab and email!
Technology has certainly changed over the decades, but each semester I see in my students the same anxiety and hope that I once felt upon starting college. I sought a teaching position here because I admire how our students attend college not simply because it’s expected of them, but because they want a degree that will better their lives. I also love living where I work, knowing I played a role in the education of the professionals who serve my community.
DCCC supports first-generation college students both with an office dedicated to their needs and small classes held close to home and online to fit into their busy lives. It’s a privilege to hone my students’ writing, critical thinking, and literary analysis skills so that they can feel confident in transferring anywhere. And if they feel a little lost on that journey, I want students to remember that asking for help is a sign of strength. Their professors just might understand their struggle more than they know.
First-generation Recognition Award recipient - Ayisha Hatim Barrie
I was born in Sierra Leone and raised in Guinea until high school, after which I moved to America. Currently, I am pursuing a dual major in CyberSecurity and Interactive Computing, and I am excited to be in my final year at DCCC.
Being a first-generation student is both a privilege and a challenge. As the first in my family to pursue higher education, I often feel the weight of my family's hopes and dreams on my shoulders. My journey has been filled with obstacles, from starting as a nursing student on probation to discovering my passion for technology, earning a scholarship, and securing a full-time position at a major tech company like Lockheed Martin. Each challenge has strengthened my resilience and determination.
Throughout my educational journey, I have attended several schools, but DCCC has been the most significant in my success. The first-gen office offered invaluable resources that clarified the college experience, including mentorship that empowered me to take charge of my academic path. My mentor, Susan Curtis, has been a remarkable support. Her understanding and encouragement have been crucial to my progress; my achievements at DCCC would not be complete without her guidance.
The supportive community, including Student Employment Services, has also played a significant role in my journey, helping me secure an internship and prepare for interviews that led to my current job. Initially, I was not very involved, but DCCC encouraged me to socialize, participate, and even lead various clubs.
To my fellow first-gen students: your unique experiences are your strength. Embrace your journey and don't hesitate to ask for help. As I remind myself, “Your background, color, gender, religion, and age do not define your future; your choices do.” No matter how difficult the journey may seem, never give up. Keep pushing forward—success is within your reach!
