Picture Yourself Here: Teresa Jones

Pursuing a degree at age 46 has made a world of difference for Kalamazoo Valley Community College student Teresa Jones. After a battle with cancer and time spent at schools that weren't the right fit, she said Kalamazoo Valley was the educational experience she had been searching for.

"Kalamazoo Valley has had a huge impact on me," Jones said. "I started my re-entry into school in another state. The school didn't feel right for me. Then I found out about Kalamazoo Valley and all it had to offer. The Michigan Reconnect program made a world of difference in funding my education, too."

Jones said that after all the hardships she faced, she found peace on Valley's campus.

"Walking around the Texas Township Campus was so exciting for me. I loved seeing the gym and the courtyard with the trees. That's my favorite part of being on campus - seeing nature from almost anywhere brings me calm," she said.

The 2026 graduate said she plans to continue her education at Siena Heights University, where she will study community and human services with a focus on family.

"My hope is to use my degree to assist the people who will need the help most. It feels like an uphill battle, but such an important one," Jones said.

As a student with autism, Jones said Valley instructors made pursuing her associate degree possible.

"The instructors here want their students to learn and succeed. I have had some of the best instructors of my life here and am very grateful for all the opportunities I've had as a Cougar."