Alexandra Overholt, Paralegal Student

Paralegal student Alexandra Overholt has one goal: to do well with her studies so that she'll eventually land in a fulfilling career - one that provides a comfortable life for her two young daughters.  For the past several years, Overholt has combined being a mom and a student while also balancing a full-time job. Her story is not unique, but may serve as inspiration to those who think that going to school, working and parenting are too much to try at one time.

"There are definitely not enough hours in the day," Overholt admits. "But since I've been at NCC, I've grown up a lot. I've had to take on more responsibility. I wasn't a focused student in high school, and then I took a break and had my first child. After I became a parent, I saw a real purpose for getting an education."

Overholt had aspirations of becoming a medical student, and had completed one semester of biological science when she interrupted her academic pursuits at NCC to become a mother for the second time. Her priorities began to shift, and Overholt realized that it was time to think about a new course of study that met two criteria: the program she pursued would have to fit her personal interests, and the career that she moved into would have to be flexible enough to allow her time with her family.

"I saw paralegal studies listed among the top ten careers on Yahoo, and so I asked my advisor here about it and learned more about the associate's degree. I love the program and what it's taught me so far. The professors really relate to the students and they interact with us as if we're in a real professional office with them."

Overholt admits to being a big fan of some of television's popular legal dramas, and says that Identification Discovery is her favorite TV network. However, it was her own experience growing up that led her to realize her true interest in the legal field.

"When I was young, I put up a good argument for whatever I believed in," says Overholt. "I've also had a major interest in psychology. I see how it relates to the law. I've dealt with some difficulties in my life that have allowed me to relate to people going through similar difficult situations. When you've been a person who needs a lot of help, you better understand what others are dealing with."

Overholt continues to take her education one day at a time, but hopes to also one day pursue an accounting degree or even a return to exploring biological science. She feels that having multiple certifications could make her a real asset to a law school or even a law office. Whatever her future choices are, she knows she's not the only one who will benefit from them.

"My daughters see me working and studying all the time. They pick up on that," says Overholt. "It sets a good example for them."