By Avery Lash
Before finding my place at Grand Rapids Community College, my journey through higher education took a few unexpected turns. Like many high school seniors, I once believed that attending a university was the only path to success. I graduated from Caledonia High School in 2023, just outside of Grand Rapids. I vividly remember shutting down my parents’ suggestion of community college during my senior year because I didn’t think it was “important enough.” I was determined to go to a university, which ultimately led me to choose Grand Valley State University.
My first year at Grand Valley didn’t go as expected. I quickly realized that university life wasn’t everything I imagined. I often felt alone, overwhelmed by the size of the campus, and uncertain about where I fit in. The sense of community I longed for was missing, replaced by growing anxiety and self-doubt about whether I’d made the right choice.
After a year of increasing stress and reflection, I decided to follow my instincts. I chose to live at home and commute to Grand Rapids Community College, a decision I once refused to consider.
I’ve now been a student at GRCC for about a year and a half, and I can confidently say this opportunity was exactly what I needed. I’ve built meaningful connections, worked one-on-one with advisors to plan my transfer back to a university, and discovered clarity in my academic goals, all while studying tuition-free because I live in-district. Not only have I saved money, but I’ll also earn my associate degree before transferring, something many university students miss out on.
For anyone unsure about their career path, GRCC is an excellent option. The school serves around 12,000 students and offers individualized support from professors who genuinely care about your success. It welcomes learners of all ages and provides programs for nearly every interest and career field. There’s no need to have everything figured out, GRCC meets you where you are and helps you grow from there.
Transferring to GRCC has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. I’ve found confidence, clarity, and direction that I didn’t have before. For anyone questioning their path, I’d offer this simple advice: trust yourself. There isn’t one “right” way to reach your goals, only the one that works best for you.
