Laurel Ridge Community College is just what Judah Dotson needed as he transitioned from a homeschooling background to higher education.
On May 15, he graduated with his Associate Degree in General Studies. This fall, he’s transferring to Regent University to study pre-law on the path to becoming a lawyer.
“A Community college education is available right here in Luray, which is great, so I went ahead and applied,” said Dotson, who lives in Forestville, a small community in Shenandoah County.
Dotson had a somewhat hybrid schedule, taking some classes at the Luray-Page County Center (LPCC), some on the Middletown Campus and some online.
He spent quite a bit of time at the LPCC since he was a work-study at the welcome desk. In that role, Dotson gave tours to prospective students, proctored exams and made sure all technology was up and running.
“The great thing about being a work-study is there is plenty of work, but there is also plenty of time to study,” he said. “They understand that you’re a student, so they would give me the hours I could manage around my school schedule. It also allowed me to get better connected to the college, which I appreciated.”
Dotson also enjoyed being part of the Games Club at the LPCC, playing board games and card games with his classmates.
“That was a great time for fellowship with other students,” he said. “It’s great for connecting and getting to know people.”
His favorite instructors were Professor Curtis Morgan and Ian Michie, who he had for history, and Judy Suddith, who is the manager of the LPCC and was his English instructor.
“I really liked how they were able to set me up after class to discuss with me the content of the courses,” said Dotson. “They were excited to teach, which made me excited to learn.
“The folks at the college are very willing to listen. They’re very kind and very supportive, which is exactly what I needed coming out of high school. As a homeschooler, you can have doubts sometimes. I came here and was welcomed with open arms. The professors here are top-tier. They really put their heart and soul into what they’re teaching their students.”