Great schools and training programs offer learning opportunities that go far beyond the syllabus. We asked some amazing folks from the community to share stories from their educational journey with us.

Ronnie Bolar

My school experience was both difficult and rewarding. I returned to school as a “non-traditional” student at the age of 31. It had been 10 years since I had to seriously study and take classes. It was very difficult for me to get back into the swing of being a student. The most important thing for me was remaining focused so that I could acheive my goal of graduating. Read more>>

Dominique Tull

My three years of training at Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University were some of the best years of my life. Having the opportunity to obtain my Doctorate from a Historically Black College filled me with a sense of pride and purpose. My time at FAMU started me on my path towards trailblazing. Following FAMU, I moved to Jacksonville, FL to participate in Brooks Rehab’s Orthopaedic residency program. Read more>>

Xaria Bloom

For folks who may not have read about you before, can you please tell our readers about yourself, Meet Xaria, Mixed Martial Arts commentator, host, and personality who is also an AAAI/ISMA certified personal trainer and NASM nutritionist certified in culinary and pastry arts by the New School of Cooking(LA). Read more>>

Kris Frykman

In the late 70s, early 80s I was one of the only women in art school that was taking foundry and welding courses. I loved the physical process of manipulating wax into a form, building a mold, casting bronze and iron sculptures. Same too, the physicality of shape shifting metal and reconfiguring materials into a welded sculpture proved rewarding. Read more>>