Student Services & Programs

Transcript

Joining us now is an incredible woman who has balanced school, work, and motherhood. Natalie is a proud mother of six and a student in the pre-nursing program. She’s about to share her inspirational story on why she chose the nursing program at Santa Ana College and all the students support services made available to her. Natalie, the microphone is all yours.

– Thank you, Alex. I am a proud mother of six and a pre-nursing student here at Santa Ana College. My oldest son, who was born premature at 28 weeks was cared for by amazing healthcare professionals that showed me how much they truly cared about helping him through the process. It was then that I knew when the timing was right, I would transition into nursing to be able to pay it forward to help moms like me. At first, the anticipated long years of schooling kept me from pursuing my goals. With the help of SAC Student Resources I’m able to juggle raising my kids, working, and a full class schedule. EOP S or Extended Opportunity Programs and Services and CalWORKS give students more opportunities without the stress of additional expenses. These services help me come back to school by paying for my books, my laptop, and my classes. More than this. Students within the program are provided tutoring services and early priority registration so I’m able to choose my classes and the schedule that works best for me and my family. And thanks to the care program I’m provided free childcare whenever I need it. Physically on campus is the Diaper Bank where I can pick up diapers and wipes at the Thrive Center. After that, I can stop by the Food Bank and snack pantry once a day to pick up any food I may need. I am so glad I was able to come back to school to pursue my passion and receive the support I needed as a single mom of six. Through Santa Ana College I can confidently continue my education to become a nurse practitioner and a midwife. My ultimate goal after graduation is to open a medical spa that acts as a birth center and provides postpartum care to moms. That is my story. And back to you Alex.

– Natalie, it’s inspirational the way you balance life and how wonderful to hear that Santa Ana College offers wraparound services for students like tutoring, basic needs, childcare, and more, which fosters student success. Thank you for sharing your incredible story Natalie.