So Far, So Good, by Winifred Bell

Last updated on October 4, 2019

Winifred is studying Criminal Justice at Cedar Valley. After DCCCD, she plans to transfer to the University of Texas at Arlington to earn a bachelor’s degree.

It’s been a smooth and easy transition since the beginning of the semester; however, it has taken lots of focus and dedication to get the job done. I’ve had so many great experiences, met some great people and I’ve challenged myself in ways I never thought I could. Making the decision to return back to school and complete my education was a very easy decision. Our son is in his last year of grad school, I personally didn’t have any obstacles preventing me from going back, and I have an awesome job that helps me gain on-the-job experience that ties into my degree plan.

There are so many men and women out there that are procrastinating about the idea of going back to school. My advice is to make a commitment to yourself to complete your education and enhance your life.

I was an honor student in high school, so I attended college immediately after graduating. I attended Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; however, after only two years we became pregnant with our son, so I withdrew. After having our son, I went into our family’s business, which was rental properties. I think because I was able to make a good living for so many years it hindered me from making the decision to go back to school and finish my education.

After moving to Dallas 16 years ago and gaining employment with the school district, I thought about going back to school to complete my education. After being employed with DISD for many years, I did return back to school off and on between 2003 and 2011. I’ll be finishing up a certificate program in the spring in Criminal Justice. I’ll complete my bachelor of arts within the next 2.5 years, and it’s easier than most would think.

There is absolutely nothing anyone can’t do if they put in the work and make sacrifices. College classrooms consist of students that just graduated high school, returning students, and older adults making the decision to complete or start their educational journey. The classroom is made up of different types of people from different backgrounds, which makes for an interesting learning environment.

If you put your mind to it, clear out the mental clutter, and just commit to a few hours a week then you can certainly achieve your dreams. Nothing comes to a dreamer but a dream!

Thank you for your insight and optimism, Winifred!

Be sure to browse our archives for more student blogger posts, or read more from Winifred.