Jared

Discover the academic journey of Jared Porter, a criminal justice major who unlocked a world of possibilities at Howard Community College (HCC)! With lower tuition, scholarship opportunities, flexible schedules, and dedicated academic support, Porter found the perfect place to pursue his dreams.

"A combination of the affordable cost of education and proximity to home was the main factor in choosing HCC," said Porter. "Before I received my scholarship, I was unsure whether I would be able to take more than one class per semester."

After graduating from Marriotts Ridge High School, Porter's dream of attending college had hit a major roadblock. Like thousands of other federal employees, his mother lost her job earlier this year.  However, the Project Access Scholarship offered Porter much-needed financial support.

"Attending college would have been another struggle with any financial support," said Porter. "I thank the donors for my scholarship, which helped me to pay for school."

Today, he is a member of Howard P.R.I.D.E., an award-winning, life-enhancing mentorship and support program for male students. The program provides assistance with tutoring, academic monitoring and advising, and the development of educational plans.

"The support I gain from the [Howard] P.R.I.D.E. program helps me achieve my goals by connecting academics to real-world and real-life issues," said Porter. "I receive tutoring to help me with my classwork and learn communication skills that enable me to articulate my thoughts and opinions through weekly group discussions, thereby building my confidence and professionalism."

By participating in HCC's Dragons Track and Field program, Porter gained additional academic support and is developing critical life skills valued by employers, such as leadership, teamwork, discipline, resilience, and time management.

"In Track and Field, I get to network and connect with other students, gaining experience from former track athletes," said Porter.

He is also taking advantage of the college's free resources, which help HCC students focus on academics.

"To help me with my mental and physical health, especially when I face overwhelming stress from challenging classes, like math, which gives me daily anxiety and panic before tests, the Wellness Center is my relief," said Porter. "The [campus] food pantry is a huge help when I'm hungry, removing a major worry for students like me on a tight budget."

Porter plans to transfer to the University of Maryland, College Park.