“Monroe really puts its heart and soul into helping students, and I feel proud to be part of this community.”
Thirty-six years after leaving school due to the birth of her child, Lisette Reyes returned to school. With help from her advisors and excellent professors, Reyes will be joining Monroe University's graduating class of 2026.
Reyes originally started at Monroe after getting her GED in 1988. She attempted an associates degree in IT but was unable to complete her schooling because of her pregnancy. Earning her bachelor’s in criminal justice, Reyes credits Monroe for her seamless return to school after such a lengthy hiatus.
Reyes emphasized the importance of the career center, which aided her in understanding platforms like Blackboard and the writing center which helped her with her papers whenever she was struggling. She said there were always resources available and people to guide her on her journey. In addition to those resources, Professors were accessible with office hours and extra help.
“There were moments where I felt like it was really tough,” Reyes said. “Getting used to things was challenging because of my age but the professors made the difference.”
For Reyes, Monroe helped her realize that it is never too late. Pursuing a degree and a field that she is passionate about is not impossible, especially with the strong support system the school offered her.
“Monroe helps students. They really put their heart and soul into this, I don’t see another university or college that would help us that way,” Reyes said. “I feel proud to be at Monroe.”
