2024 graduate Hazielle Hervo-Smith has wanted to be a doctor since “before I can remember.”
Now that she has her general studies degree, she is going to finish her bachelor’s degree in biology at James Madison University this fall. Hervo-Smith has grown up around the medical field – her mom is a nurse.
“She thinks it’s cool, and that I will be great at what I set my mind to,” said Hervo-Smith of her mom’s thoughts on her medical goal. “I would like to be a pediatrician because I like kids. I either want to practice in California, Florida, or Texas.”
She was an active student at Mountain View High School in Shenandoah County – formerly Stonewall Jackson High School –played basketball, ran cross country and track and field and swam for the town of Mount Jackson. Hervo-Smith brought that willingness to get involved in student life to Laurel Ridge. She has served as a work-study and as a Student Ambassador.
“Being a work-study is very fun and engaging,” said Hervo-Smith. “I got to help plan activities and work events, and meet new people. Being a Student Ambassador was also fun.”
She especially enjoyed being a part of a Martin Luther King Jr. Day event at Shenandoah University, and traveling to South Carolina to help build a Habitat for Humanity house during Spring Break. Both activities were part of her role as a Student Ambassador.
“I had never done anything like that before, therefore, building a house was very exciting for me,” said Hervo-Smith.
Hazielle Hervo-Smith and Chris Lambert.
She said she has flourished while working with Chris Lambert, the college’s coordinator of Student Life and Engagement.
“He has helped me a lot throughout my time here – mentored me, helped me with picking classes,” Hervo-Smith said. “He’s kind of a family friend because he knows my mom. I appreciate him always listening and giving me good advice. Chris Lambert is a great person.”
Hervo-Smith said she would recommend students complete their first two years of college at Laurel Ridge.
“The classes are small, and you can get more one-on-one time with the professors,” she said. “There is less pressure. Everyone is just at a pace that’s comfortable for them, which you should do.”
Her favorite class was sociology with Professor Tara Smarr.
“She was really funny, and she made class enjoyable,” said Hervo-Smith.
Laurel Ridge Community College was known as Lord Fairfax Community College until June 2022. For consistency purposes, the college will be referenced as Laurel Ridge going forward.