Sarah Stallings, 45, of Battle Creek, graduated from KCC this past spring with certificates and Associate of Applied Science degrees in Administrative Assistant and Business Management.
Stallings graduated as the 2024 Outstanding Workforce Development Division Graduate – Part-Time Student and 2024 Outstanding Office Information Technology Graduate, the top awards in her program area and division. While at KCC she was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, a student worker in the Accounts Payable, Advising and Career Services departments, and also served as an Office Information Technology tutor.
Stallings started attending KCC via the Futures for Frontliners program, a COVID-era initiative sponsored by the state that allowed Michigan residents who worked in essential industries to attend their local community college tuition-free. She was also the recipient multiple scholarships from the KCC Foundation.
Today, Stallings is a College Completion Corps Coach with AmeriCorps and the Michigan College Access Network based on KCC’s Battle Creek campus, where she helps students meet their goals of earning a degree or certificate like she did.
Why did you choose your major/area of study?
I chose to major in the Administrative Assistant and Business Management programs because they offered valuable skill sets. I sought flexibility in my education that would open opportunities in various fields. These programs provided practical skills useful in everyday life, while also offering versatility and a competitive edge to advance into areas like human resources, business operations or even entrepreneurship.
Why did you choose to study your major specifically at KCC?
I chose to study my major at KCC because I was already familiar with the campus, and its proximity to home was convenient. Additionally, I had previously attended KCC in 1999, and several of my family members had also studied there, which made it a comfortable and trusted choice for me.
What are you doing now, and how did KCC help you on your path?
I am currently working with the Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) in partnership with AmeriCorps to bring a College Completion Corps Coach to KCC. In this role, I support students, help them navigate college life and assist them in achieving their goal of obtaining a degree. KCC played a crucial role in preparing me for this position by providing the necessary skills and experiences.
Was your favorite part of your time at KCC, and why?
My favorite part of my time at KCC was the instructors. They made me, a nontraditional, online-only student, feel seen and heard. Their support throughout my journey was invaluable, always being there to assist whenever I had questions.
What’s the most interesting thing you learned at KCC?
It’s challenging to pinpoint the most interesting thing I learned at KCC, but I would say the advanced skills I acquired in various software programs stand out. These skills are crucial for modern business operations and have significantly enhanced my proficiency and efficiency in the workplace.
What advice do you have for current or future KCC students?
For current or future KCC students, effective communication is essential. If you have questions about assignments or need help, it’s important to speak up. Others won’t know you need assistance unless you ask. Taking the initiative to ask questions ensures you get the most out of your education.
An excerpt of this Q&A will appear in the September 2024 edition of BruIN magazine. To read the issue online when published, please visit kellogg.edu/bruinmagazine.