Scholarships open the door to college dreams for LCCC Student Amanda Sorrell

College once felt out of reach for Amanda Sorrell - until financial aid brought it within grasp.

Now a part-time market research worker and single mom, she’s enrolled at Laramie County Community College and building a future she thought might have passed her by.

“I didn’t think I could afford it,” Amanda said. “I thought, there’s no way I’m going to be able to go back to school and not go into debt.”

That changed when she filled out the FAFSA and qualified for the Kickstart Wyoming’s Tomorrow Scholarship –   a funding boost that gave her the confidence to take the next step.

“When I got the email with my award, I started crying,” she said. “I realized, OK, I can do this.”

Now in her first semester at LCCC, Amanda is exploring a new direction that leans into her strengths – one that might lead to a future in accounting or a professional certification such as the CPA or CIA. 

After years of working in research and customer service roles, she’s discovered an interest in data, structure and problem-solving.

“I’ve always liked the analytical side of things,” Amanda said. “Being in school is helping me figure out how to put that to use.”

She balances her coursework with part-time remote work that offers flexible hours, something she said is essential for managing life as both a student and a parent. Though the pace is demanding, the support she’s received has made all the difference.

Amanda said she’s felt genuinely welcomed and encouraged at LCCC, and that the college has created a space where non-traditional students like her can thrive.

“There are people checking in and making sure you have what you need,” she said. “It’s not just about getting you into school. They want to see you succeed.”

Returning to school wasn’t just about finding a new career. For Amanda, it was about changing her story, and showing her son what’s possible.

“I want him to see that starting over is OK,” she said. “That it’s not about having everything figured out. It’s about taking the next step when you’re ready and asking for help when you need it.”

Amanda plans to complete her associate degree at LCCC and continue exploring what’s next, whether that means further education or entering the field with a professional certification. While her goals are still taking shape, she said the support she’s received so far has given her confidence she never expected to find.

“College felt impossible for so long,” Amanda said. “But thanks to financial aid and scholarships, it’s not just possible - it’s happening.”