Education leads to self-sufficiency
Kathy Sweney
Age: 54
Occupation: Deputy Chief Appraiser, Potter-Randall Appraisal District.

Where did you receive your education?
Amarillo High School, Amarillo College and West Texas State University.

How has your education played a role in your life today?
My education has given me the tools to succeed in my job and in raising a family.

What was your greatest educational challenge and how did you overcome it?
Balancing a full-time, 40-hour job and attending classes. I attended night classes four nights each week, year-round for 2½ years to complete AC. Through determination and perseverance I was able to overcome the challenges I faced.

What is the value of your education?
It enabled me to be self-sufficient. My husband and I were able to provide a good life for our family and give our children opportunities to travel and experience many different interests.

What would you say to someone who is undecided about continuing their education?
Choosing to earn a college education is one of the most important decisions a person will make. It takes desire, discipline and determination to earn a degree. It is a choice that you make for your future. It will open many occupational opportunities and give an appreciation for the world we live in.

When did you make education a priority?
I decided early on during my junior high days that I wanted to attend college. My parents did not have degrees and I was always encouraged to achieve something more.

What made you realize the importance of education in your life?
I had better job opportunities with better salaries than I had worked in the past. I realized I would have better opportunities to grow within or move within a company with a college degree.

Did you ever think about quitting? What made you keep going?
Yes. Night classes, after working eight-hour days were not always easy to attend, especially by the fourth night of the week. But I had a goal set for myself, and I was determined to accomplish it. I guess you could say that having a goal and perseverance kept me going.