Maybe Mom Was Right
by Alexandra Heasley, Class of 2025 Machine Tool Technology
Imagine being forced to attend a school that you didn't want to go to. That's exactly how I felt. My home school was a place where I could hang out with my friends all day long, but it was also a place where I wasn't able to focus on my studies. I was constantly getting into trouble with everyone around me – and then I went on a field trip.
After coming home from school that day, I told my mom about Lawrence County CTC. I went along, happy to get out of my academic classes with my friends, thinking that I would just fill out an application and later decide to not attend; I had already made up my mind that I wasn’t going to go. But my mom had other plans for me. When she shared those plans, I was devastated. I didn't want to leave my friends behind, and I felt like my whole world was crashing down on me.
On my bus ride to the CTC to attend my first day, I was intimidated by the large, bold letters overtop the front doors: LAWRENCE COUNTY CAREER AND TECHNICAL CENTER. I was uncertain about what to expect that day. However, to my surprise, attending the vocational school turned out to be the best decision I had ever made. I was surprised to find that the atmosphere was incredibly welcoming, and the faculty and students, alike, went above and beyond to make me feel at home. The teachers were not only knowledgeable and skilled in their respective fields, but also patient and kind, which greatly contributed to my personal and academic growth.
I was surprised that my grades began to improve almost instantly, motivating me to use my best effort. I began to enjoy coming to school, which was a feeling I had not experienced in quite some time. On my first day, I remember feeling doubtful about whether or not I would enjoy even one moment at this school. I still decided to give it a chance, and I am so glad that I did.
One of the most significant factors that contributed to my positive experience was the shop and the teacher. I found that I looked forward to coming to my shop; the teacher was super funny and engaging. Machine Tool Tech was the right choice for me.
The following week, I was happy to find that I also enjoyed learning from my academic teachers, as well. For the first time in a long time, I felt like I was actually learning something that would help me in my future, and it was a proud moment. Overall, Lawrence County CTC helped me find my place in the world, and I will always be grateful for the experience. Maybe Mom was right, after all . . . but don’t tell her I said that.
