Kathy Farmer watches the monitor in front of her intensely as grainy black and white images come into focus.
“I hope to help save lives,” she says. “It is very challenging but rewarding.”
As a diagnostic medical sonography student at ACC, Farmer spends much of her day in labs, scanning and observing.
“I started the program thinking I would focus on babies, but I’ve learned sonography is so much more. We image adult, pediatric, and fetal organs to make sure there are no diseases or pathology present.”
When Farmer went from being a part-time student to attending ACC full-time in fall 2016, she struggled to find a balance between school and work.
“I have a large, challenging study load. It makes it hard to work when you are in such an intensive program,” says Farmer. “I work once a week and pick up on breaks, but paying rent and bills on savings alone is a struggle.”
She applied for assistance through the ACC Foundation scholarships and in spring 2017 became the first recipient of the ACC Alumni Network Scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to one full-time student pursuing a certificate or associate degree at ACC to help pay for tuition, fees, and books.
“As alumni, we all understand the value of education. It’s important that we turn our success around to help others achieve their dreams,” says Mary Ann Cicala, Alumni Network director.
“I don’t have to worry about finding the money to pay for tuition and books. Now, I know I can get through school,” says Farmer. “My dreams are within reach. I’m excited to see what the future holds and where I end up.”
The Alumni Network has launched a fundraising drive to raise $30,000 for its scholarship fund by May. The group will match donations received by May 31 dollar-for-dollar up to $15,000.
To make a gift online, visit austincc.edu/alumnidonate. For more information, call 512-223-7109.
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