It is never a surprise when the story of a Laredo College student exemplifies the goals of the college and showcases the longstanding mission since the inception of Laredo Junior College in 1947. However, more so than that, it is truly both a heartwarming moment and pinnacle achievement to hear a student going above and beyond despite the challenges they face.
Natalie Easton was a first-time college student this spring and her transition wasn’t at all what she expected. Between her busy course load and developing her time management skills, Easton’s academic track record took a hit. She said that right away, the stress was overwhelming as her time in high school didn’t fully prepare her for the college lifestyle.
“I wasn’t understanding what I needed to learn and it is so frustrating when it’s your first semester. It’s scary for everyone and a lot of people don’t know it’s scary,” she said.
Beyond the pacing challenges, Easton spoke about how difficult elementary, middle and high school were as she was diagnosed with dyslexia from a young age and had constant struggles in school. She often struggled writing essays in high school and said that after the she was assigned essays at LC, it proved too great to the point where she questioned if she may need to drop out.
Through her first semester at LC, Easton said she had trouble acclimating to the heightened pace set by the courses and professors. This experience isn’t rare for incoming high school students but addressing it is an ongoing mission set by the college’s faculty and staff.
According to Easton, her first semester at LC continued to trouble her until her professor, Elsa Gonzalez, helped her after class and suggested a visit the LC Writing Center. This would prove to be Easton’s catalyst into becoming who she is at the end of her first year.
“I came with my first essay and I immediately loved how much they were willing to help me,” Easton said. “Now I always advocate for the writing center so much as they have helped me with everything from classes to improving my confidence.”
Writing Center Director Maria Partida and her staff understood the issues Easton faced and rallied together to ensure that she succeeded in her classwork and had someone rallying behind her when classes got tough. While that may be the goal of the writing center, building a strong friendship with students is as vital as building on their academic strengths and weaknesses.
Through this bond and the support, Easton was able to receive help that was tailored to benefit students with dyslexia and bolster her confidence in herself as a person and student.
This confidence and her yearning to help others resulted in being hired as a TRIO math tutor. She was recommended by several of her professors after they saw her helping her classmates in both classwork and as a friend to lean on.
It’s not just about tutoring in math, Easton said, but about providing the help and support that she received when she was struggling.
“I love my job because I get to do what I always wanted to do,” she said. “It’s my first job ever, and I am really happy to be where I am right now.”
The continuous support from the Writing Center staff did not just help Easton in her course work but also to rebuild her confidence. The support she received opened the door to her new job, a positive outlook on college life and many new friends.
