How has engaging in this education program while incarcerated impacted your outlook on the future?
The experience of such care and concern from NPEP staff has altered my faith in humanity, and that has given me hope for the future. I know now that I can be deemed an actual human who is no different from the next person, and not just as an individual in custody.
What challenges have you faced in pursuing your studies within a correctional facility, and how have you overcome them?
Many here believe incarcerated individuals don’t deserve such an elite education — you’d think they’d encourage someone getting an education to become a better version of themselves. We’re singled out and targeted for trying to get to class on time. It’s sad really. Their negativity pushes me harder to be a great student.
Can you describe a moment or achievement you feel especially proud of in your studies?
I love seeing how many correlations there are between the wide range of courses we’ve taken. Using examples from one class to explain how a particular process works in the next — those are the small a-ha moments I love.
Have there been any courses or subjects that have particularly resonated with you, perhaps changing your perspective or aspirations?
Expository writing was one of our first courses taught by Professor Tilley. It was during the start of COVID-19, but that didn’t affect the experience.
Professor Tilley was always asking for more detail, more depth, and more layers. Those were definitely some long nights. I love and appreciate her dedication. She pulled a lot out of me that I didn’t realize I could achieve. I’m a better writer because of the faith she had in me.
In what ways has the support from educators and fellow students within NPEP contributed to your educational journey?
We’re the first female cohort, so we’ve all committed ourselves to reaching our full potential. When one of us lags, we help pull them back up. We have a tight bond because of the program.
Reflecting on your time in the program thus far, what advice would you give to other incarcerated individuals considering starting their educational journey?
If you truly want a lifestyle change for the better, enroll. This process is serious dedication and it’s not for those who aren’t ready. But if you’re in the right frame of mind, go for it and be great. Ask for help when you need it and help others when you can.
How do you stay motivated and focused on your studies amidst the unique challenges of being incarcerated?
Education is definitely something that you can immerse yourself in. This helps redirect your time and energy to a place where everything remains stagnant. I want to grow so that one day I’ll be able to flourish and make changes for all those affected by the carceral system.
Are there specific goals you’ve set for yourself to achieve by the end of the program, and how do you plan to achieve them?
All of this education is molding me to be a well-rounded individual who is worthy of a second chance. I hope to share my story with others and use my example to prevent rather than punish. Change needs to happen so that prisons have useful resources to provide us with the tools to become rehabilitated — and not just warehoused and then released.