Student Profile: Marissa Datavs (Downers Grove, Ill.)

Marissa is a sophomore from Willowbrook.

OES: Many students come to us not knowing what to expect. Is the program different than you expected?

MD: I thought it would be easy and I wouldn’t have to work very hard. It is harder than I thought but I’m not distracted as much and I can work at my own pace.

OES: Any other differences?

MD: There is less drama here. By that I mean since there are fewer students we don’t have class clowns who can really disrupt a class.

OES: Are there any other differences?

MD: I’m not scared to ask a question. Before I thought other students would judge me or think I was stupid. Now I get one on one help when I need it.

OES: What’s your most difficult class?

MD: History. The lessons are long and I need to take a lot of notes.

OES: And your favorite?

MD: English. I like to write.

OES: Do you feel like you have changed since you’ve been here?

MD: Yes. First, I realized you had to work if you wanted to get work done. Nobody was going to make you.

OES: Anything else?

MD: The Everest College visit was important. I don’t want to live pay check to pay check. I’d like to show people I can turn things around and actually be able to help my parents.

OES: Was there one program you were interested in?

MD: Yes, medical or dental assistant. I’ve always wanted to work in the health care field.

OES: Any final thoughts?

MD: I’ve learned I’m the one responsible for my future. No one else can do it for me. I have to do it. And now I know I can.