Issue link: http://howardcc.uberflip.com/i/593580
Fall 2015 | Pathways 3 and Research Laboratory posed thoughtful questions about the college search and financial aid process. Oakland Mills High School student Esther Asamoah-Frimpong wanted to know if there are colleges that will admit students with a lower grade point average (GPA). "Many colleges will post a minimum GPA," explained Dr. Hetherington, president of Howard Community College. "But it's not solely GPA. They're looking at the whole package." "Community colleges are open admissions," continued Dr. Hetherington. "Unless you're applying for a select program, GPA will not come into play. You can start out at a community college." That's exactly the path that panelist Trecya Jordan followed after graduating from Long Reach High School. As she shared with the high school students, she didn't have a strong GPA, but she knew she could go to Howard Community College and turn her grades around. She will graduate in May with a nursing degree. Currently in clinical training at Howard County General Hospital, Jordan enjoyed the opportunity to share her story. Steven Snelgrove, president of Howard County General Hospital, hopes many of the county's high school students will follow Jordan's example and find employment at the hospital or other health care fields. "Health care will be with you your entire life," said Snelgrove. "There are going to be a lot of jobs and tremendous opportunities for you to stay in the community where you grew up – and work at your local hospital. We'd love to have you." The final question at the panel discussion came from Oakland Mills High School student Mariam Kabbara who wanted to know what tips the First Lady and President give to their daughters about college. The First Lady's advice: "This is a time in your life when you feel pressure and you feel like everything is weighing on you, and I know you all are tired. But this, too, will pass. And you guys are going to be fine." For a recap of the event on social media, visit www.storify.com/ HowardCC/reach-higher.