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February 01, 2018When Ashley Pilla was looking at her educational choices, she found Century College to be the best option. “I have a young child, work full time and needed the affordability and flexibility that Century College offers,” she said. “Plus, I live in the area, so the location is convenient.”
Although Ashley had been out of high school for several years, her transition into a higher education pathway was easy. “Starting at Century College has opened new opportunities for me. It’s been enjoyable taking classes and furthering my education. I am learning good study habits at Century College, and I have been successful with focusing on time management.”
Additionally, Ashley’s experiences with Century College’s Service Learning program dovetail nicely with her education. Working on a degree in Human Services, she chose Valley Outreach in Stillwater, MN, a non-profit organization that provides the Stillwater School District with food, clothing and emergency assistance. “My duties were to shop with clients for food or clothing that they were qualified to receive based on their annual income and family size. Valley Outreach relies heavily on volunteer support and currently has about 1,300 volunteers. Staff and volunteers all greeted me with a large welcome and a smile every time I came; it was a very positive experience.”
Suzanne Lindquist, her supervisor at Valley Outreach adds, “Ashley was a fabulous Service Learning volunteer for us. She assisted clients as they shopped in the Food Shelf and always treated our clients kindly, with dignity and respect, with a huge smile and the heart of a servant.”
Ashley’s goal is to continue to work with the vulnerable adult and elderly population. “I have served them for several years and know that’s where I want to be. I plan to transfer to Metropolitan State University and continue towards a degree in social work,” Ashley noted.
Learn more about Century College’s Human Services program.
