Opportunity Grants Student Wanda Smith-Jeter

Wanda Smith-Jeter thought she would never go back to school.

Now, after 25 years, EvCC’s Opportunity Grant is affording her the chance to do what she thought was impossible.

Because she is disabled, Wanda lives on a fixed income. She dreamed of finishing her degree, but because of her financial situation school was simply not an option.

But when Wanda saw an ad in The Herald newspaper featuring the Opportunity Grant, she decided to give it a shot.

“When I saw the Opportunity Grant program in the newspaper, I didn’t think I had the confidence to try. But I decided that I would go to the school, and if they let me in, I would give it a try,” she said.

Now Wanda is on her way to a degree in accounting.

She credits much of her success to the support she receives from counselors, professors, and fellow students.

“The grant supports me by funding any immediate needs that might stand in the way of success, the counselors sit down with us and address all of those needs,” she said, “my tuition, books, and other expenses are all addressed.”

The instructors are supportive and the students are encouraged to help each other as well, she said. “Anyone who needs help gets help and anyone who can give help gives it.”

Since joining the program, Wanda has been exposed to a variety of occupations she would be able to do from home.

“I would encourage anyone who wants to improve their lives in any way to get involved,” she said.

Wanda is currently earning an “A” in accounting.

“This year, I hope to give my husband a report card full of ‘As’ for Christmas,” she said.