Sheena Benson

When Sheena decided it was time to make a change in her life, she knew the first step would be going back to school. Oakton provides a supportive environment where she is pursuing her goal to become a middle school counselor. She will earn an associate degree as a psychology pre-major and plans to transfer to a bachelor's degree program to continue her education.

Engaging in online classes provide maximum flexibility, allowing her to work full time and still be an active parent. And her Oakton community of advisors and instructors are connecting her to resources like scholarships, tutoring and career coaching. She has a dedicated advisor through TRIO, a program for first-generation students. Her advisor helps her set academic and career goals, navigate the college experience, and plan her next steps.

“All of those things have helped me grow tremendously. I feel confident to take my next step to a four year college," Sheena said.