Rusty Day, Criminal Justice instructor at SRTC-Bainbridge recently spotlighted his remarkable student Sharene Price. “Sharene is a Criminal Justice student here in Bainbridge. She is an older, non-traditional student, single mother, works three jobs, takes care of her kids, and also maintains an honor society grade level. I think she would be a really influential student for others to model after!” We could not agree with him more! Sharene is an amazing person and an extraordinary student. Because of her dedication to her studies and excellent grades, she has earned her spot in the National Technical Honor Society, an organization that exists to honor, recognize, and empower students in Career & Technical Education. She is a leader among her peers and we are honored that she choose to #StartHere!
Q: You are a non-traditional college student juggling numerous adult responsibilities, including kids and multiple jobs. What strategies do you use to maintain your honor-level grades as a busy single mom?
A: That's a good question. First I would like to say prayer and keeping God first. I also work at prioritizing my classes based on the scheduled due dates.
Q: What drew you to a career in Criminal Justice?
A. Since I was a child, I've always had a heart for helping people and something about solving crimes or investigating crimes has always drawn me in.
Q: What is your dream job?
A: I'm not sure as of yet what my dream job is. I know I'm very passionate about helping people, but I'm also thinking about crime scene investigation. I love the thought of solving crimes and helping families gain some type of relief, a sense of closure for their loved ones.
Q: What have been your greatest successes as a college student?
A: Being able to see the fruition of my work and knowing graduation is near!
Q: What are your greatest challenges as a college student?
A: My biggest challenges are striving to maintain my National Technical Honor Society grades (and math!)
Q: What does acceptance into the National Technical Honor Society mean to you as a student?
A: To me it means I’ve achieved something of greatness, I have maintained a badge of honor. My school noticed my grades and honored my dedication to succeed.
Q: Who are your biggest supporters?
A: My biggest supporters are my kids and my Advisor Rusty Day. Without them, I don't think I would have made is this far.
Q: How do your family and friends feel about you choosing this college and career path?
A: My family is very proud of me. They stand behind me in whatever decisions I choose for my career path.
Q: What have you enjoyed about the Criminal Justice program?
A: I've enjoyed learning the different aspects of the law.
Q: Do you remember any particular lessons or advice that you found particularly useful or important?
A: The advice that I’ll always hold dear was from Rusty Day. Last semester when I was so overwhelmed with math and I was on the verge of giving up, Mr. Day told me he believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. He told me "You got this! I’m so proud of you. You’re almost there and I’m going to be the loudest one screaming your name!” It meant the world to me to know someone saw so much potential in me.
Q: What was the most challenging thing about being a nontraditional college student?
A: The most challenging thing is being older then your classmates and always questioning can you keep up with the course work. Also, working to support a household and a child that's also in college.
Q: What advice would you give individuals who are considering a career in Criminal Justice?
A: Make sure that this something your passionate about. Go into with a heart to make a change and an impact in every life that that you come across. Also remember: In life, there are going to be many roadblocks and hurdles to cross. Always remember it's not how you start the race but how you finish it that counts.
Q: What is the next step in your career path?
A: My next step is to obtain my Bachelor’s Degree at Albany State University or Thomas University.
Q: Do you have any tips to share with students who are struggling to hold it all together as far as life, family, school, work?
A: Take one day at a time. If it becomes too much, take a step back and breathe. Even if you have to take some time out to regroup, it's okay, as long as you go back to finish. Remember it's not the swift who gets the prize, but the one who paces himself with his/her stride is the real winner!