A Variety of Student Experiences

An image of Lone Star College - North Harris

We are hitting a tough time of year in the college semester, for various reasons.  It is post-Spring Break, which often includes a drop in energy levels for faculty, staff, and students.  It is also a time for students to reflect on their academic progress - will they be able to make their desired grade?  Do they have time to finish this project or that paper?  There are additional concerns that plague students regarding finances, job security, the care for or loss of loved ones, transportation difficulties, and more.

One situation that does not receive enough attention throughout each semester is student homelessness.  Several professors in the English Department alone have spoken with individuals in their classes who struggle to find a stable home environment.  Some students have lost their jobs, while others have been kicked out of their homes by family.

It is remarkable that these students carry on and come to school, ready for class and willing to focus on that day's work.  It also takes incredible courage for them to share their circumstances with professors and staff.  Thankfully, we have resources available for those who are struggling, but too often these students suffer in silence because of shame, guilt, and the threat of judgment by others.

The experiences of our students here at North Harris are so varied - we have veterans, single parents, first generation folks, those with jobs (sometimes more than one), those who are unemployed, students who come to school hungry, and those who do not have a place to call home. 

The image above is of our campus.  In some ways it is an accurate portrayal of the campus - it's a relaxed space with good hangout areas where people congregate and come to learn.  This is a typical photo of a college environment, revealing what is shiny and not what may need extra care or consideration. 

Though some students may move through campus, experiencing the shiny version above with thoughts of future jobs and endeavors, far too many are facing extreme life experiences where "success" is measured on a daily basis and "home" is a temporary, rather than long-term space.