Tags
Construction Management, Financial Aid, online degree, scholarships, Student Profiles, Union Plus, USW
It’s Friday! That means we’re counting down to the August 6th 9th Fall scholarship deadline with a new series of blog posts.
Our first post tells the story of Rodney Donald, a proud member of USW Local 9477, and how a two-week layoff snapped him into action.
For the last 16 years, Rodney has been fortunate to work at a work site that has provided good union jobs for more than a century.
But a two-week layoff was the reality check he needed to confirm his decision to finish his college degree online with NLC. It was a tough move for the 40-year-old father of two, who often works 60-hour work weeks, including weekends.
It’s not easy, but I’m glad I made the decision to complete my degree in construction management at the NLC. It doesn’t feel like an ‘online college’ because the students are so connected to the faculty and to each other.
It helps that the College is geared towards working adults: “As a union member, I can relate to the classes offered at the NLC.”
Going back to college is a family affair for Rodney Donald
Dedicated, Disciplined
Rodney, of Baltimore, MD, advises union members considering finishing their degrees at the NLC to be dedicated and disciplined.
He credits his wife, Tina, for his being able to continue to be involved in his kids’ activities as well as his union’s political activities: “You have to carve out time to study which isn’t always easy; I couldn’t do this without my wife’s help.”
Rodney, whose father worked at his plant for 30 years, is proud of his roots, but wants his sons to know that finishing college is important, especially in this economy.
I’ve always felt that political action was important because our leaders make so many decisions that affect working people’s lives. I still feel that way but I also think education is a powerful tool for making your life better.
Scholarships for NLC Students
Rodney is thankful for having received a scholarship: “I’m glad Union Plus recognizes that it’s important for union members to earn college degrees.”
Scholarships for the Fall semester are available to help your dreams of completing a degree come true, make sure you apply by August 6th 9th to qualify for federal financial aid and scholarships.
This was part of the Fulfill Your Dreams at NLC series.
Updated 4/23/12
National Labor College Community 
gcnewman said:
Hang in there Rodney. It is never too late. I recently completed my degree at NLC at the young age of 57. The staff at NLC are some of the most dedicated I have ever met.
gcnewman said:
Hang in theer Rodney. I recently completed my degree at NLC at the young age of 57. The staff at NLC are some of the most dedicated I have ever met.