Name: Shaniqua Hopkins
Started at Rio: June 2023
Degree: AA, Family Life Education
Anticipated Completion: Spring 2025
Already completed: Child and Family Organizations Management and Administration
Why I Chose Rio Salado College
I was originally at South Mountain Community College and the program that I wanted to start was only available at Rio (Child and Family Organizations Management and Administration). I was skeptical of taking online classes because I know it takes a lot of discipline but I wanted to take the certificate.
Why I Recommend Rio Salado
Rio allows the flexibility of being a mother, an employer or employee, and a student. The instructors understand that there is life outside of school and help you juggle both areas. I have had great experiences with my instructors where they learn about the students and incorporate their teachings into their goals.
My Academic Plan
I am working toward an associate in Family Life Education. I plan to graduate by spring 2025 and further my education by obtaining a bachelor's degree in Behavior Science. The plan for my degree is to grow my nonprofit organization. The overall plan is to offer housing, childcare, transportation, and a rec center/resource center for pregnant and parenting at-risk teens.
Who Inspires Me
My seven children inspire me every day to keep pushing forward. I let them know it is possible to reach for the stars, even when you think it is hard. I am the founder of a non-profit organization that serves pregnant and parenting at-risk teens. They inspire me for two reasons: I learn so that I can guide them and it also shows them that they can further their education, too. My grade point average 4.0 also motivates along the way, it makes me proud of myself.
How I Fit Education into My Life
Since enrolling in school, I have learned how to be able to manage my time with school and everyday life. I set specific times in my schedule to work on schoolwork and study. I use a calendar to write down due dates and, if I have a busy schedule coming up, I double up on my school work. I make sure that I do not work on schoolwork when my children need my attention and wait until they are at school or doing schoolwork themselves.
When it comes to my organization, we set study times. I have three clients who are in school themselves, and we all work on schoolwork at the same time.