Apr 10
Teacher Assistant Living Her Dream Working with Children
April 10, 2024 - A teacher assistant at Spring Hill Middle School, Faith Perkins’ dream has always been to work with children in special education. 
She finally followed her dreams by enrolling in the Early Childhood Education program at Richmond Community College. It was a big step for her to take because at the time she was a stay-at-home mom with four boys and eventually became the primary caretake of her father-in-law. She received a lot of support and encouragement from her instructors and other staff at RichmondCC, and she graduated in May 2023. Check out our interview with her:
What made you choose to attend RichmondCC?
I decided to enroll in RCC because of the flexibility of in-person classes as well as online classes.
Why did you enroll in the Early Childhood Education program?
When I was in the 6th grade, I had the opportunity to help in a Special Education classroom, and I fell in love with it! Just from being in there for 30 minutes I knew that this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. It may have taken a few years before I made the decision to finally follow my dreams. It was also a big step to take because at the time I was a stay-at-home mom with four boys and eventually becoming a primary caretake of my father-in-law that I wouldn’t trade for nothing. During the day, he would always encourage me to do my schoolwork even on days that I just did not want to do it.
What do you like about your career choice?
I absolutely love it! As I mentioned, Special Education has always been dear to my heart. I get to help kids who can’t speak for themselves,
Did you pursue an advanced degree after RichmondCC?
I have at Capella University online. I am pursuing my bachelor's in Psychology, and then I plan to get my master’s degree in Special Education.
Why would you recommend RichmondCC to others?
The one thing that I loved about RCC is the connection I had with my instructors, especially Krystal Harris, who I still talk to even after I’ve graduated. Then you have others that work not behind the scenes but who give you the push you need when you feel burned out! People like Teresa Meehan in the ASC! These two ladies are a prime example of a support system, who are there when you’re overwhelmed and encourage you to keep going even when you feel it's just too much. Knowing that my instructors truly care about my education and will go out their way to provide any help that you might need truly means a lot! That is why I would recommend RCC!
Pursue Your Dreams!
Enroll in Early Childhood Education classes and start working toward your dream career. We are now accepting new students into the program.