INA, Ill. - Many educational experiences in college don’t start in the classroom, but by engaging with a culture uniquely different from anywhere else. One alumnus, Brooke Sutton, learned that there is a lot to be said for doing hard work in both the classroom and with various clubs and activities on the Rend Lake College campus.
As a relatively recent graduate, Sutton completed her Associate in Science and Associate in Arts degrees at RLC, with a focus in pre-veterinary medicine, in the spring of 2011 with the help of high test scores and dual-credit classes.
“I decided to attend RLC when I earned a scholarship by receiving a high ACT score. I had also taken several dual-credit courses while at Pinckneyville Community High School,†said Sutton. “I truly believe that starting my collegiate education at a community college was the best decision I made to further my education. It was a perfect transition from high school to college.â€
- Brooke Sutton
In addition to enthusiastic instructors, Sutton stressed that she gained a lot of real-world experience by being involved on campus in clubs and as a student worker.
“The instructors are all dedicated to helping their students succeed in their courses. The experience of working on campus opened many doors for me,†said Sutton. “I was very involved on campus as a student worker, a Phi Theta Kappa member, and a student ambassador. This allowed me to network and gain valuable contacts and references that I still make use of today.â€
Based on her experiences, Sutton said she recommends RLC to those just starting out on their post-secondary educations.
“I tell everyone who asks that the best decision I made when it came to college was deciding to attend Rend Lake College before going to a university,†she said. “The contacts and experiences I attained while attending RLC continue to prove invaluable as I pursue my goals. I recommend RLC to anyone considering a college career.â€
After her RLC graduation, Sutton transferred to Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO), where she graduated in May of 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness: Animal Science.
Before she graduated from SEMO, Sutton took a job with current employer Hinduja Global Services (HGS) selling animal health products to dairy producers for Elanco Animal Health.
In the future, Sutton said she is looking forward to growing in her current position at HGS.
“I hope to advance my career within the company I currently work for. My employers know I have goals to continue on, and they support my efforts and tutor me while on my road to success,†she said.