Ernestine Volcy’s journey is one of perseverance, determination, and a deep commitment to personal growth. Her story began as a young, single mother who had always known the value of education, but the timing never seemed right. While college was expected in her family, life circumstances kept her from pursuing that dream. However, when an opportunity to attend college presented itself through her church, she decided to take the leap, guided by the encouragement of her family and faith community.
In 2013, Ernestine started her academic journey, feeling nervous but excited. She loved learning, and with the support of friends, family, and tutors, she powered through the challenges of being an adult learner. From late-night study sessions to balancing motherhood and work, she poured her heart into every class, earning honors (Phi Theta Kappa) upon graduating in 2016.
Several program elements catalyzed her decision and her success: onsite classes only a few blocks from her workplace, professors who were easy to talk to and welcomed questions, and onsite tutoring on Saturday mornings. As an adult learner, logistics matter. Dinner was available as most students came to class straight from work, proximity to the bus promised a safe ride home, and older children were welcomed to do their homework while mothers and fathers were in class.
But it was the practice of community combined with Ms. Volcy’s internal determination that was the most impactful. The staff guided Ernestine through the whole college process, from application to graduation. Ernestine became friends with her classmates who journeyed through the program together doing group projects and spending nights on the phone working through assignments together. Ms. Volcy’s iron will and commitment to excellence got her to the finish line. “I put my all into it. I wanted to prove to myself I could do it.”
But her education journey was far from over.
After graduating with her associate degree, partnership site staff continued to provide Ernestine with updates regarding the program and persistently encouraged her to pursue a bachelor’s degree. But how could she manage work, school, and family? Ernestine had also been promoted to a new management position and needed to find an online program. Online classes would be familiar given her experience delivering family advocacy services online during covid. Online work also freed up some time in her schedule for school. Further, she was doing the work of a social and criminal justice major every day, and realized she should get paid at that level. “It was a lot of pressure. I’m not saying I didn’t want to give up a few times. But I loved it. I loved it.”
Ernestine completed a bachelor’s and a master’s degree with the University of Arizona Global Campus, again earning honors as a Golden Key Honors Society member. “My master’s I did for me. I really proved to myself that I can do something I didn’t think I was able to do.”
Her story is a powerful reminder that no matter the obstacles, with grit, community support, and a belief in oneself, anything is possible. As Ernestine says, “If you don’t step out, you’ll never know.” Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of education, resilience, and the belief that you can achieve what you set your mind to—even when it seems impossible.