Mesa Community College graduate Rebekah Ward, age 34, said she believes she is living proof that it is never too late to achieve your dreams and aspirations.

Ward, who resides in Queen Creek, said she married and became a mother at a very young age, which caused her to shift her focus to her children. As a result, her educational journey slowed down. Her children are now seven and thirteen years old.

“Although education has always been important to me, it was challenging to get back into it as I grew older,” Ward said. “I had a comfortable career, and I became complacent. Eventually, I saw the value in finishing my degree and started taking one class at a time. Before I knew it, I was finally approaching the finish line, and it was extremely gratifying to see.”

Ward, who has worked for MCC in Admissions and Records since 2008, said she is looking forward to seeing what the future holds.

“I grew up at MCC and have developed working relationships with some of the best people who attend and work here,” she said. “I am proud to complete my studies at a college that prioritizes student success. I used to look back and feel regretful about not being as advanced as others around me, but now that I am here, I know that I am at the exact time and place where I need to be in my educational career.”

Ward plans to finish her associate in applied science degree in massage therapy in 2024 at Phoenix College and begin her bachelor's degree in communications at Arizona State University in the fall of 2024.

Her career goal is to specialize in sports massage therapy, with a focus on manual lymphatic drainage, once she receives her license in massage therapy.

Ward said throughout her schooling, online tutoring and communication with her instructors helped tremendously when things became challenging.

“I would like to express my gratitude to Cameren Ward, Lucy Rayford, Arlene Deleon, Limse Thor, Jeff Salo, and Ashley Hardin for their assistance in my success,” Ward said.

She tells future students that having had the opportunity to meet and connect with numerous individuals through her position is an experience that she will always cherish.

“If you are considering becoming a student at MCC, my recommendation would be to make use of the available resources,” she said. “There are plenty of individuals who are willing to assist and support you in achieving your goals.”