Innovative program helps single mothers earn college degrees

Brenda James is living up to her potential with help from the Women in Transition program at Charter Oak State College.

Everything was on track for Brenda James when she graduated from Bloomfield High School and went on to Virginia State University.  But then she discovered she was pregnant.

Life often derails plans for the future.  But losing out on a college education has a steep price tag.  A college graduate can expect to earn about $25,000 more than someone with only a high school diploma, according to 2005 census data.

“I had to step up to the plate for my daughter,” said Brenda.  That meant finding a job.  “Without a college degree, I had to take lower-paying jobs.  I had the ability to learn, but not the credentials.”

Then Brenda learned about the Women in Transition program at Charter Oak State College.  The program provides an opportunity for underemployed, single mothers with some college credit to complete a degree online, without barriers such as childcare and transportation.  Students receive laptops and printers, textbooks, Internet access, financial aid, and personal and career counseling.

Women in Transition graduating class of 2007

“As a single mother with a full-time job, I didn’t think I could pull off college,” said Brenda.  “This program was an answer to my prayers.”

Now armed with an associate’s degree, and well on her way to a bachelor’s degree, Brenda feels like she’s living up to her potential.  And the benefits extend well beyond a better paying job.

“My daughter sees the determination in me.”  Brenda’s daughter, now 20, serves as a police cadet and is working toward a degree in criminal justice.  “She has learned through my experiences – she won’t be a statistic.”