Workshop/ Open Forum

Overcoming Adversity to Become Successful in College and Life

Everyone deals with adversity, it's a fact of life, but some people overcome so much that they become an inspiration to the rest of us.

Stephanie Parsons is an Instructor here and today she shared her story about overcoming adversity.

Stephanie spoke today about the hardships she has faced.

She grew up in an abusive home in Missouri with five brothers and sisters.
She was unable to read, without anyone noticing, until the sixth grade.
Stephanie later married and had two difficult pregnancies.
Her husband was stricken with cancer.
She got a job at Hewlett-Packard but lost her job in a layoff.

At this point, many people would give up. Many would buckle under this kind of pressure. Even Stephanie admits to having times where she asked "Why me?" Yet, Stephanie endured. She gives thanks to many people and encourages others to look at the bright side.

She grew up in an abusive family but had a grandmother that inspired her to be a better parent.
She couldn't read but encountered a teacher who taught her.
She had two difficult childbirths, but has two children that are her life.
Doctors have given her husband slim chances, but he is still here.
She lost her job at HP but she is now with us at TSTC.

She attributes her success in life to faith in God and an adherence to the Golden Rule..."Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."