Post on 09-Aug-2020
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Connect2Complete, a program of Campus Compact supported by The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, works with nine community colleges in Florida, Ohio and
Washington to utilize peer mentoring and community-engaged learning as strategies for retention of low-income, developmental education students.
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As a first-‐generation college student, Hannah recognized the value of a college education and wanted to get a head start. Although her first semester of college was a challenge, Hannah quickly realized that Big Bend offered a multitude of resources to support her.
When Connect2Complete was looking for Peer Advocates to support student success, Hannah knew she wanted to get involved so she could help other students connect to the resources that had been so helpful to her. Now, Hannah connects students to tutors or academic help, supports students in course registration, and engages students in service-‐learning projects. Hannah says, “I didn’t know about the opportunities available. I didn’t meet the people that could help me be successful. C2C is a great resource about how to be successful in college – it’s easier to talk to someone closer to your age.” C2C has helped Hannah as well: “Connect2Complete has helped me become more confident in myself.” And, it’s given her the opportunity to help people – which she hopes to continue to do in her education and future career.
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Hannah Chisholm hopes to pursue a career such as social work where she is able to help people connect to the resources available to support them. At just 18 years old, Hannah has nearly completed her Associates in Arts and Science degree at Big Bend Community College through the Running Start program, which allows high school students to earn college credits.
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Connect2Complete: A Conversation with Hannah
Peer Advocate – Big Bend Community College, WA
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At Right: Hannah, left, at a C2C service-‐learning event
Above: Hannah, right, provides support to a C2C student