My MSJC Story | Tichona White
After years of hard work, study, determination, financial struggles, sacrifice and even some time living homeless, Tichona White graduated from MSJC with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) in May 2019.
But after graduation, the 28-year-old Hemet resident still needed to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) in order to become a licensed nurse. All of the costs associated with the exam added up to about $450, which was overwhelming for the single mother of two.
鈥淚t was challenging just trying to make it through real life at the same time as school life,鈥� the honors student said on graduation day.
Tichona posted items for sale on Craigslist to try to cover the exam costs. Then she received great news: The MSJC Foundation informed her they would cover the cost of her exam so she could realize her dream of becoming a licensed nurse.
鈥淚 was overwhelmed with emotions,鈥� said Tichona, who had previously received scholarships through the MSJC Foundation from the Hemet Valley Hospital Auxiliary, Alma Brooks Nursing Memorial, and the Assistance League of Hemacinto.
鈥淢SJC has helped me tremendously to succeed in completing my degree, but I did not expect them to go above and beyond for students who have already graduated. I was in shock because it reminded me that MSJC does not forget about their students. Even after graduating, they are helping me succeed.
鈥淚 am very proud to be a part of the MSJC family and I feel very honored that the Foundation thought of me when deciding to give out the donations. Thank you so much, everyone. I appreciate this more than I can ever explain in words.鈥�