From Nigeria to Kentucky: One BCTC Student's Journey

Leaving one's home country to pursue education in a foreign land requires immense courage, determination, and a burning desire for a better future. This is the story of Henrientha, a young international student from Nigeria, who embarked on a journey to study at Bluegrass Community and Technical College. Inspired by her parents' unwavering work ethic, Henrientha found herself driven to succeed. In this blog, we explore Henrientha's experiences, challenges, and the invaluable lessons she learned along the way.

The Foundation of Hard Work:

Henrientha grew up in Nigeria, where her parents instilled in her the values of hard work and perseverance.

"My parents didn't have the opportunities that they gave me but being there in Nigeria I saw them work twice as hard than every person to ensure I got this opportunity," Henrientha said.

Witnessing her parents' unwavering commitment to their work, Henrientha developed a deep admiration for their dedication and the positive impact it had on their lives.

A Leap of Faith:

Henrientha came to the Lexington when her mom was searching the internet for safe and affordable states in the United States. He mother came across Kentucky and found a local, affordable community college to explore different associate degrees.

Her mom, "found out that it was affordable, and it was going to give me the same educational level as going to my first two years in a four-year college," said Henrientha. So she decided to pursure an associate degree at BCTC then planned to transfer to the University of Kentucky.

Embracing the Bluegrass Experience:

Henrientha quickly immersed herself in the academic and extracurricular opportunities at Bluegrass Community and Technical College. She pursued a degree in nursing, fueled by her desire to help people in her community. Henrientha sought guidance from her community college faculty, participated in leadership opportunities, and consistently strived for academic excellence. She soon realized that her parents' work ethic provided her with the resilience and determination necessary to succeed in her studies.

Drawing Inspiration:

Throughout her time at BCTC, Henrientha often found herself drawing inspiration from her parents' unwavering dedication. Their tireless efforts to overcome obstacles and provide for their family served as a constant reminder of the importance of hard work and helped open doors to career pathways. Their work ethic kept her motivated during times of doubt and served as a source of inspiration to persevere.

A Future Filled with Promise:

As Henrientha's time at Bluegrass Community and Technical College came to a close, she reflected upon her transformative experience. She had grown academically, culturally, and personally. Armed with the values of hard work, determination, and the support of her loved ones, Henrientha felt ready to take on new challenges and contribute to her community.

"I am currently a junior in the college of nursing at University of Kentucky and I also work as a nurse tech at the hospital," Henrientha said. "I feel like BCTC gave me a head start. Being at BCTC, a smaller college, I was able to navigate better, and with that I was able to navigate better at UK. BCTC prepared me to be a leader at my four-year institution."

At the University of Kentucky, Henrientha is an ambassador for the college of nursing and an ambassador for the international center. "These leadership opportunities and being at BCTC prepared me for gaining the confidence that I needed to step into those positions," Henrientha said.

Henrientha's inspiring journey as an international student at Bluegrass Community and Technical College and then on to the University of Kentucky showcases the profound impact of her parents' work ethic on her pursuit of education. From Nigeria to the Kentucky, Henrientha embraced her parents' values, navigated challenges, and emerged as a resilient individual, ready to make a positive difference in the world in a variety of career pathways. Her story serves as a reminder that hard work, determination, and the unwavering support of loved ones can propel us towards success.