Three years ago, I made the decision to get sober, and it completely changed the course of my life. Before then, college was never on my radar—I had dropped out of high school, earned my GED in 2012, and was stuck in a lifestyle that gave me no real future. But through recovery, I found a new purpose: to help others who are struggling with addiction, just as I was once helped.
That’s what brought me to Yakima Valley College, where I am now pursuing an associate’s degree in substance use disorder counseling. My goal is to transfer for a bachelor’s degree in psychology and eventually start a nonprofit organization that supports people on their path to recovery. I am also preparing for an internship at a rehabilitation center that will give me real experience in counseling.
Even though I have financial aid right now, I know how difficult and intimidating the cost of college is for many students. Free community and technical college would make the difference for people who are ready to rebuild their lives but can’t see a way past tuition. For those of us coming from addiction, poverty, or other struggles, removing that barrier can be the lifeline that keeps us moving forward.
I’ve also benefited from support services like the food pantry, work study, and the student Wellness Society. These programs show how critical it is to invest not just in tuition, but in the wraparound services that keep students healthy and on track. If Washington lawmakers commit to free college and stronger supports, more people will have the chance—like I did—to turn their lives around and build a better future for their families and communities.