In a recent segment on The River 95.3’s radio show, The Valley Today, Guy Curtis, director of marketing, and Caroline Wood, associate vice president of student services and academic support, dove into how the college supports traditional students and adult learners alike. Laurel Ridge has built a community that prioritizes student success at every stage, from first-time students, to adults returning to advance their careers.
Building Community Through Stories
During the episode, Guy expressed his gratitude for Brandy Boise, director of public relations and special events, who filled in on a recent episode, and spoke on the power of storytelling. It’s not just about marketing, but sharing real experiences and showing how education changes lives. Laurel Ridge attracts students from all backgrounds, including adult learners who bring their own unique goals and motivations.
Support for Adult Learners and Career Changers
One misconception Caroline tackled is the idea that past a certain age, it’s “too late” to return to school. At Laurel Ridge, support is embedded in every part of the college experience. Resources like financial aid assistance, connections to government services (such as SNAP), and prior learning credits — which recognize prior work and life experience — help returning students succeed. Guy added that many adult students already have transferable skills for high-demand fields. He praised Laurel Ridge’s career services, which offer free assessments to help students identify the right career paths based on their experience and interests. He also noted surprising career opportunities for adult learners in health care beyond nursing.
Affordable Education with High Value
Host Janet Michael and Caroline also discussed the affordability of a Laurel Ridge education compared to four-year colleges. Caroline shared inspiring stories of adult students like Sydney, who returned to school, joined clubs, and became an active part of the college community, reflecting the welcoming and inclusive environment at Laurel Ridge. For those interested in transferring to a four-year university, Caroline highlighted pathways to schools like Virginia Tech, George Mason, and James Madison University. With affordable tuition and robust academic support, starting at Laurel Ridge can help students save on costs while still receiving a quality education.
Explore Your Options at Laurel Ridge
Laurel Ridge is all about creating a warm, supportive environment, and Caroline invites prospective students to visit campus or attend information sessions. Guy also mentioned upcoming events and sessions, which make it easy for students to explore their options and get started on their educational journey. For more information, visit laurelridge.edu/get-started. Whether you’re stepping onto a college campus for the first time or returning to advance your career, Laurel Ridge offers the support and resources to help you reach your goals.