Chapter 15: Berea Bustling

My name is Maria Elkins, and I am from a small rural town in Illinois. At 20 years old, I am the oldest of eight siblings. Neither of my parents attended college. Now, I know what you're thinking. Why does this matter? The truth is it really doesn't. That being said, with these tidbits of background information, you may gain some insight into my particular story as a student at Berea College. But first, here's a little more background.

Before I knew it, I had graduated high school and for me the next step in my life was one that was without question: college. College had always been my next step because there was no other option. As a first-generation college student, I knew that I needed to go to school so that I could set a good example for my siblings and so that I could eventually secure a stable job. When I first started looking at potential colleges, I had no idea what to expect or where to go so I applied to many different schools. I also made sure to ask my friends and family for their advice about where I should go. I received many recommendations, but none felt right. Until one night I was taking a walk with one of my extended family members and we were having this exact conversation. My great aunt, after I finished explaining my situation, told me about a work college in Berea, Kentucky, and how this would allow me to graduate from school with minimal debt. This was my first time ever hearing about work colleges. I was very interested, especially because my family has struggled financially all throughout my life. There was something about this college that made it stand out from the rest. I knew deep inside that this was where I wanted to go. After more research, an application, and a college visit later, I was accepted into Berea College. My life's course had changed significantly and there was much for me to learn in the coming year and a half.