BCC sophomore to graduate: Butler has prepared her for what’s next

As Butler CC students prepare for finals, some have plans for graduation. This means they transfer to a four-year university next, stay another year or even decide they are done. Whatever it is, students have some time to figure it out. Students begin to pick up their cap and gowns and prepare for graduation. Graduation ceremony will take place on Friday, May 16 at 7 p.m. at the B.G. Products Veterans Stadium. 

Avery Roberts, a sophomore Liberal Arts major, is graduating. For Roberts, it feels great to be graduating this year because receiving her associate's degree is a big accomplishment. It hasn’t always been easy balancing school with work and life. 

“Working in Admissions here at Butler has been great,” Roberts said. “I have loved working there for the past two years, and I am going to miss the people I have worked with. I have made so many memories working there and it has always been fun coming into work. Admissions has been a positive, supportive work environment that I have appreciated over the years. There were moments I wanted to quit. I dealt with burnout, but I just tried to stay motivated through everything. I pushed through, leaned on my support system when I needed to and kept reminding myself why I started. Getting to this point took a lot of growth and patience.” 

During Roberts’ first semester, she was nervous going to class with teachers she didn't know and encountering different people. Her English Composition I class stood out because her instructor, Mrs. Reitz, made the class fun. Roberts’ English instructor also reminded her a lot of her English teacher in high school. She also met a friend in that class who she sat by every day. This made it meaningful because it was easier to come to class knowing somebody was in there.  

“I am planning to attend Wichita State University in the fall to major in elementary education,” Roberts said. “I chose Wichita State University because it is close to home and when I took a campus visit, I loved everything about what they had to offer.”  

Roberts is planning on pursuing a degree in elementary education.  

“…I have always had a passion for teaching and helping people,” Roberts said. “I love kids, and I can't wait to make an impact on their lives.” 

The sophomore credits the college for preparing the next step to WSU. 

“Butler has prepared me for what is next because I have learned how to manage my time, stay focused and adapt when things get tough,” Roberts said. “It has definitely prepared me to take that next step with more confidence. I would say to transfer but take your time figuring out what’s right for you. Talk to advisors early, double-check how your credits transfer and don’t be afraid to ask questions. It saves a lot of stress later on. Also, trust that your time at community college matters.” 

Roberts ideal grade to teach is kindergarten through second grade, and she is excited to see what her future holds for her. What she will miss most about this school is that it's a smaller campus, so it was easy to build connections with people. It felt like the instructors cared and wanted to see her succeed, and Roberts will also miss working in the Admissions Department as well. 

“What I am looking forward to the most after graduation is to relax and not have to worry about any assignments,” Roberts said. “Also, to hang out with friends and go on fun trips with my family. Don’t rush the process. Take your time, ask questions, get involved and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Trust yourself, lean on your support system and remember every step counts.”