In the Spotlight with Elise

This past week I had the opportunity of meeting with our Star of the Month who was given a chance to tell the Board of Trustees how Austin Community College has helped her. Her name is Markette Griffin, 25, who grew up in Trinity, Texas. She first attended ACC to receive her GED and after a bit of persuasion, decided to return to achieve her dream as a physical therapist. Although things are starting to look brighter for Ms. Griffin, they haven't always been so. Due to a hard and abusive relationship, as well as sickness in her family, she was forced to put a hold on school. But she says with the support of her family and friends, and her deep roots in her faith, she has worked through those issues and is more determined than ever to follow through with her education. Here is a bit of what she shared with me. E: What classes are you currently taking? M: I'm taking Developmental Reading, Developmental Math and Human Development. E: Wow, sounds like a lot of work! M: Oh, it is! E: What do you want to achieve through Austin Community College and what are your aspirations? M: I want to become a physical therapist and obtain an associate degree in physical therapy. I want to get my certificate as a physical therapist's assistant first and see how I like it, [and] make sure it's something I want to continue.

E: What inspired you to want to become a physical therapist? M: I love helping people; I mean really, that's the number one reason why I wanted to do it. I have an Aunt - she's been hit by a car twice - which has caused a lot of problems and pain with her pelvis. That's what really made me want to learn more, to be able to help her and others. E: So you went before the Board of Trustees! Tell me about that, how did that all come about for you? M: I got a call from Veronica[Obregon]; from ACC at the Highland Business Center…I was really surprised when she called. She asked if I would tell my story to the Board of Trustees and my first reaction was "Me, in front of the Board?" You know… Veronica was really the one who changed my mind about coming to ACC. My aunt and grandfather were very sick and things with my boyfriend at the time were getting worse. So I considered moving to Houston to take care of my family. But Veronica told me now was a great opportunity to pursue my career in physical therapy; she knew that's what I wanted to do. She also pointed out that the more I learned about physical therapy, the more I could help my Aunt. She really inspired me to stay and to come to ACC. E: What motivates you? M: School, my job, my family, they motivate and support me. My friends motivate me…Church especially keeps me grounded. E: What advice do you have for other students? M: I would advise them to stay in school, get help and advice when you need it. Keep your head up.

Good words to live by I'd say. It was an honor and inspiring getting to know Ms. Griffin. An example to the rest of us, that we can achieve our goals, but not without a little help on the way. Till next time. -Elise Kaye