Robert trained as a medical assistant for 18 months before realizing it wasn’t the right fit. While working in an afterschool program, he discovered his passion for working with children. He added a daycare assistant teacher role to his schedule and earned his Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. But to advance, he knew he needed a college degree.
A former supervisor recommended the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Program through a Harcum College Partnership Site. Though intimidated by college and a first generation student, Robert contacted Harcum and was referred to the Southwest Leadership Academy site. After meeting with the coordinator and reviewing the curriculum, he enrolled.
Then the challenges began. For financial aid and enrollment, Robert needed ID documents—but some records had his middle and last names reversed. Untangling the issue was overwhelming, and he nearly gave up. That’s when Community Education Advocate Harold McIlwain stepped in, helping Robert navigate the bureaucracy step by step.
On the first day of class, Robert panicked over his first assignment. Anxiously unsure how to begin, he called Ms. Paulette, who encouraged him to reach out to his instructor. “I know you can do this, Robert. You’re not going to quit.” The professor explained the assignment clearly and gave examples. That breakthrough built Robert’s confidence.
Soon, Robert saw how his classroom learning applied directly to his daycare job. “Things just made sense,” he said. His success snowballed—he made the Dean’s List every semester and was promoted to Assistant Director at work. Robert is the first in his family to graduate college. After earning his associate degree, Robert decided to keep the momentum going and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree, earning a scholarship from Chestnut Hill College and tuition reimbursement from his employer.
Support from the Partnership Site staff made all the difference. “Ms. Paulette championed me to myself,” Robert said. “Without their help, I’d probably still be at that afterschool job, not thinking about a degree.”
Robert is now his own inspiration. Although his immediate family expressed resentment of his achievement, he is pushing through. “They didn’t like that I chose to do something different and won’t hear me. I had to say ‘think what you want,’ I’m doing this.”
To anyone unsure about college, Robert says: “If there’s something in your heart, just do it. Don’t worry about the end result—have faith in yourself. and don’t overthink. Instead of what ifs, focus on what you can learn and know.”