RCC Alumni

RCC to ODU

Ryan Riordan is a passionate young chemist whose journey began at RCC as a dual enrollment student. As Ryan transitioned from high school to college, the experience was both enlightening and transformative. “At RCC, I quickly learned how different college classes were from high school,” Ryan recalled. “The smaller class sizes and close-knit campus made it easier to adjust and connect with others.”

RCC provided Ryan with a supportive environment that made the transition smoother. "I felt like I was part of a community," Ryan shared. "Everyone came from similar backgrounds, and it was comforting to know that we were all navigating this new chapter together."

One of the most significant turning points in Ryan’s academic career was securing an internship at Old Dominion University (ODU) during the summer of 2022. This opportunity arose thanks to the dedication of Ryan's chemistry teacher, Mr. Charles Crook. “Mr. Crook believed in me and encouraged me to apply for the internship program aimed at community college students,” Ryan explained. “His guidance was pivotal in helping me gain the lab experience I needed to advance my studies.”

The internship was a transformative experience for Ryan, allowing him to immerse in hands-on chemistry work while collaborating with peers from various community colleges. “I learn

ed so much in the lab, but the best part was meeting other students who shared my passion for chemistry,” Ryan said. “It was inspiring to see how diverse our backgrounds were, yet we had similar goals.”

Despite the successes, Ryan faced personal challenges along the way. Before enrolling at RCC, driving was a significant hurdle. "I had my learner's permit and rarely drove," Ryan confessed. "Becoming a student at RCC pushed me to get my license and become more comfortable driving longer distances. It was a big step for me."

Today, as Ryan continues to pursue a degree in chemistry at ODU, he remembers the invaluable lessons learned at RCC. “The support I received, both academically and personally, laid the foundation for my future,” Ryan stated. “I’m excited to see where this journey takes me, and I hope to inspire others just like Mr. Crook inspired me.”

Ryan’s story is a testament to the power of community, mentorship, and resilience in overcoming challenges. With a bright future ahead, he is eager to make a positive impact in the world of science.

Grateful for Support

Tracy Peacock stood outside the doors of the King George campus of RCC, a mix of nostalgia and gratitude washing over her. It was 2019, and she had just completed her Associate of Science degree, a journey that had begun two years earlier in the phlebotomy program. As she reflected on her time there, she couldn’t help but recall the challenges she faced along the way.

“I chose RCC because it was conveniently located in my home county, affordable, and had a small, family-like atmosphere,” Tracy shared. “Having a campus in King George was essential to my success.  I literally did not know what I wanted to go back to school for. I needed something affordable, a quick career path to help me be financially independent. Terry answered all my questions and suggested the phlebotomy career studies certificate.”

But the road wasn’t easy. In 2017, she was couch surfing with her two children, having escaped an abusive marriage in another state. “My biggest challenges were finding a stable place to stay and completing my program financially,” she admitted. Yet, it was amidst this turmoil that she discovered a supportive community at RCC.

“The staff were incredibly kind, even without knowing my personal struggles,” Tracy remembered. “From registration to the instructors, everyone was there for me.” One person stood out: Terry Abell, site supervisor and navigator at King George, who not only guided her toward the phlebotomy career studies certificate but also made her feel heard. “Terry listened to me and suggested something that checked all my boxes. It was as if she sensed my struggles, even though I hadn’t shared them with her.”

Tracy became close friends with several faculty members, including Professors Green and Olsen, and Karen Turner. “Terry encouraged me to finish my associate degree in Business, and Karen pushed me to apply for positions within RCC. That’s how I found my happy place working in Admissions and Records (A&R),” she said.

During her studies, she also participated in extracurricular activities, showcasing her skills at a community resource fair alongside her phlebotomy classmates. “We passed out information and answered questions,” she recalled. “It felt good to give back.”

As Tracy transferred to another school after RCC, she noted how seamless the process was. “It made me appreciate how well RCC prepared me for the next step,” she reflected. Tracy has a simple message for anyone considering RCC, “Come in person and feel the family atmosphere. Everyone truly cares about your success, both academically and personally.”

Tracy understands the vital role RCC plays in the community. “I absolutely love the Squall Stall food pantry,” Tracy said. “If I had that resource when I started, it would have made a world of difference for my children.”

Reflecting on her journey, Tracy has immense gratitude toward those who had supported her. “I want to thank Terry and Karen for changing my life for the better,” she said. “You have no idea what a kind word can do for someone struggling. Just remember, every interaction counts. We’re not just offering skills for future workers; we’re enriching our local community,” she explained. “By providing options for students to stay here, we make a real impact.”

“To everyone else, be that person who takes a few extra moments to encourage, support, and care for students, and coworkers around you. You have no idea what people are going through. Just a smile or a kind word can make all the difference. I would not be here today if it wasn’t for RCC!  I am truly blessed!  If you’re wondering if you make a difference or feel like you’re just paper shuffling just remember that someone in A&R I never met enrolled me in classes. Someone in advising made sure I was on the right track. Someone was cleaning the bathrooms I used to cry in wondering where my next meal was coming from or if my children and I were going to have to sleep on a new couch that night. You may not ever meet these students, but your jobs and contributions to RCC make it possible for them to move up and beyond!  Keep up the great work and as many of you who know me, I like to end my conversations with ‘Have a joyful day!’”

From RCC Student to Employee

Paris Nelson earned an associate in arts and sciences degree from RCC in 2019. “While I was a student here at RCC, it was some of the best times,” said Nelson. She took a mixture of online and in-person classes, and especially enjoyed coming to campus for classes because the student lounge was always filled with people either playing pool or ping pong or playing games like Dungeons and Dragons. Her favorite classes were in Biology. “The atmosphere was always welcoming and exciting.”

After graduating from RCC, Paris started taking classes at VCU and got a job in RCC’s testing center. She then transferred to working for the Student Help Desk as an Instructional Support Technologist. "I helped students get logged into their accounts to give them access to Canvas and their accounts is a vital step in completing course work,” she said. “I like helping the students and talking to them about what classes to take, what can transfer, and how to navigate the systems they need to use.”

Paris continues to learn and help students at RCC since she sees the value of going to a community college as the first steppingstone to advance one’s education.  She is now an Admissions and Records Technician, at the same time, just started her graduate degree at the University of Idaho studying Human Factor Psychology. In the Admissions and Records department, her favorite thing to do is help students who need to know what their first step is. Whether it's helping them apply to RCC or guiding them on what steps to take after applying. She remembers how intimidating it once was starting college, and no matter the age, those nerves are the same for all people.

“I like to help the next generation of students realize the value of learning new skills, whether it be for a certificate program, workforce, or getting their AA to transfer,” she said. 

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