Jaime Coleman

Empire State College Human Services
TC3 2015, Dean’s List, Pathways Scholar, Presidential Citation, Phi Theta Kappa
Enrolling at TC3 was like entering a whole new universe and I had to learn a new language with no book or instructor to teach me the distinct dialect. However, I discovered I really enjoyed being a student despite the challenges and I earned a 4.0 my first semester. I continued to do remarkably well, earning TC3’s highest academic honor, the Presidential Citation, and remained on the Dean’s List until graduation. I don’t say this to brag, I only say this because I never thought that I was capable of achieving such academic success.

I am now completing my bachelor’s degree in Human Services at Empire State College. I plan to go on for a master’s degree in social work, with a primary focus in the “helping” aspect of the field and a secondary focus on the “policy” area. My life experiences have primed me to be an exemplary helping professional, someone who has changed her own life through determination and hard work. But first, I know that I need to gain more knowledge before I can go out in the field and be the best professional that I can be. Today my life is stable and I am blessed in so many ways. I am no longer afraid to face my fears, make the changes necessary to live a life that has meaning and is dedicated to helping to heal those who need it most.

Recently I was hired as a Client Service Worker at OAR where I am able to help people right from the jail or prison gate. My goal is to be able to offer services and guidance so they will not have to return to the same place of despair, cycle of drug abuse, breaking the law and returning to jail. I want to provide opportunities for education, growth and change. I want everyone to know that it is possible to become an active and productive member of society who can grow beyond the lives they led before.