For families where no one has attended college before, the idea of higher education can feel intimidating. Community colleges make the process more approachable by offering an environment designed for access, guidance, and success.
At Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD), first-generation students are an important part of the campus community.
“The percentage of first-generation students at community colleges is high,” says CharMaine Hines, Ed.D., Vice Chancellor, Academic Accountability and Policy. “We are open access to everyone. We are the best kept hidden secret.”
Support and connection for every learner
WCCCD’s student body represents many cultures and languages, helping first-generation students feel at home.
“Especially at Wayne County Community College District because of the number of languages that are spoken and the number of countries that are represented,” Hines says.
To give students a broader view of the world, WCCCD even offers study abroad opportunities — something not all community colleges provide. “Our study abroad program, out of the seven continents of the world, we have visited every continent except Antarctica,” Hines says. “We’ve gone to over 23 countries. Most recently this year went to Panama City and last year went to Thailand.”
A welcoming place to start
For many students, the sense of belonging is what makes the biggest difference. “Students are able to see so many people like themselves and so that’s what makes us attractive for those first generation,” Hines says.
She adds that WCCCD’s programs and instructors meet students where they are. For first-generation students — and their parents — WCCCD offers not just a college education, but a supportive first step into higher learning.
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This content is sponsored by Wayne County Community College District. Learn more about community college for your child at Metro Parent’s Community College Hub.
