Meet Sameerah Rosa.
From beginning four years ago as a pre-school teacher at the Waterbury YMCA to now serving as the Executive Assistant to the CEO of the organization, Sameerah Rosa always wanted to earn her college degree.
Now because of a partnership with the Connecticut / Rhode Island Alliance of YMCAs and Post University, Rosa, a mother of two — a 10-year old son and a 6-year old daughter– is pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in human resources.
Having just completed courses in algebra and employment law, she is taking a statistics course this term. Her education has broadened her awareness to see new possibilities and professional growth, including the field of talent management.
Currently a junior at the University, Rosa says, “I am doing this for me and to set an example for my children.” She noted the reduced tuition, which is available to all employees in the 25 different locations in the Alliance service area, was a tremendous motivator.
“Good things come along, and we should not take it for granted but jump on the opportunity,” expressed Rosa. “We make time for what we want. I wanted better for my kids and my husband.”
While being an online student was new for Rosa, she found ways to build structure for herself and keep open communication with her professors. “My professors are always willing to take time to meet with me [virtually] to understand an assignment,” explained Rosa. “I learned to take the initiative.”
With her senior year a few months away, Rosa is looking forward to receiving her diploma. “They say it takes a village. For me, there were many who watched my journey as a student, especially my husband, my kids and friends. They all put their hand in the pot to help me out. I am so appreciative of their support.”