After taking a few classes in the Human Services program I learned about the Honors Program. One of my instructors had recommended I enquire about participating because she felt as though I could give it a good shot. Well, after talking with Barbara Clinton I learned exactly what it takes to become an Honors Scholar, and I was certain I would not have the time or the energy to complete the task.

You see I am the sole provider for my wife and children, and at times my schedule had already become overwhelming. Pondering how nice it would be to achieve this goal I decided to ask my psychology instructor what it would take to earn an honors option in her course. The next thing I knew I was in the library doing research on self-fulfilling prophecies, and well on my way toward my first honors option. I found the extra time spent rewarding, and not nearly as tough as I had imagined.

That was the start of my new outlook on academics. I literally went from a blue-collar longshoreman to nationally recognized scholar in less than two years. Several thousand dollars, and numerous awards later I graduated as a Highline Honors Scholar and was the commencement event’s keynote speaker. I even shook hands with the President of the United States after being recognized as a First Team All-USA Academic Scholar. The Honors Program has given me a new lease on life. As I am writing this tears are welling up in my eyes, not only as a result of my achievements, but because I had spent the first 32 years of my life ignorant of the potential within, potential that I discovered through participating in Highline’s Honors Program.