For years, Jen Campbell dreamed of going to college. But as a busy mom raising four children and running a small business, her goal had to wait.
“One of my dreams was to graduate from college,” Campbell said. “It had been something I put on the backburner.”
It wasn’t until her triplet sons began applying to colleges that she felt a spark reignite. Helping them navigate applications and financial aid inspired her to finally take action on her own dream.
Now a General Studies major at College of Western Idaho (CWI), Campbell is thriving as she takes on the challenge of balancing school, work, and family life. Living in McCall, she commutes two hours each way to attend classes in person.
Her decision to pursue General Studies came down to flexibility. Campbell wanted a foundation that would allow her to complete her associate degree and then transfer on to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Project Management with a focus on Public Health.
Working at Natural Grocers, Campbell has long been passionate about organic food, regenerative agriculture, and nutrition — interests she hopes to integrate into her future career.
“The classes I’ve taken at CWI have really helped me develop those passions,” she said. “I feel like I’m a more well-rounded, interesting person because I’m investing in my education.”
While the long commute and busy schedule might deter some, Campbell said this journey has shown her just how strong she is.
“Going through this process has taught me that I can do hard things,” she said. “I can work, I can still be a mom, I can travel to get to where I need to be, and I can challenge myself.”
One key factor that has made her education possible is the scholarship support she received from the CWI Foundation.
“Because I didn’t have to worry about the cost of gas, I knew that I could afford to come down here to have those classes in person and have a better educational experience,” Campbell said.
Campbell hopes donors understand just how much their generosity means to students like her.
“It might not seem like a big deal, or maybe it’s a great tax incentive, but really you’re helping my dreams come true,” Campbell said. “You’re helping a person, and you’re helping me fulfill my dreams and one of my goals of graduating from college.”
Join us in supporting CWI students, visit cwi.edu/give to learn more and donate today.
