The Olympics of the Trades: students putting their skills to the test at LCCC
For Tiffany Staskiel, the path back to college wasn't traditional-but it was exactly the right one.
A graduate of James M. Coughlin High School (Class of 2006), Tiffany first enrolled at 天美传媒 years ago. Life took her in different directions, but nearly two decades later, she made a bold decision-to return to school in Fall 2024 and pursue a degree in Human Services.*
"I hadn't been in school for 17 or 18 years," Tiffany said. "It was definitely an adjustment--but once I got back into it, everything started to come together."
Now balancing life as a full-time student, mother, and weekend waitress, Tiffany is proving that determination and time management can make even the busiest schedule work. Her motivation is clear: build a better future not only for herself, but for her young son-and for the people she hopes to help.
That purpose recently took a major step forward.
Tiffany was selected for a competitive internship at Children's Service Center through the Sally Yudichak Fund?an opportunity that has allowed her to apply what she's learning in the classroom to real-world experiences with children.
"When I heard about the internship, I immediately knew I wanted to do it," she said. "I had worked with adults before, but I really wanted to learn how to support children."
Through her work, Tiffany is gaining firsthand experience in building connections, understanding behavior, and helping children develop social-emotional skills in a supportive environment.
"You can learn theories in class, but seeing it in action is completely different," she explained. "You start to understand the ?why' behind behaviors, and you learn how important connection really is."
The internship has reinforced her passion for helping others--and clarified her future path.
After graduating from LCCC, Tiffany plans to transfer to Misericordia University to pursue her bachelor's degree in Social Work, taking advantage of the college's transfer partnerships that save both time and money. Her long-term goal? To become a licensed clinical therapist.
For Tiffany, returning to college later in life has come with challenges--but also perspective.
"I wear a lot of hats," she said. "I'm a mom, a student, I work, and I'm doing this internship. Time management is everything--but if you stay organized and give yourself grace, you can do it."
Her advice to other adult learners considering a return to school is simple but powerful:
"Don't be afraid to start. The first semester might be tough, but it gets easier. Stick with it--it's worth it."
This Community College Month, Tiffany Staskiel's story is a reminder that it's never too late to start again?and that with the right support, education can open doors to meaningful careers and lasting impact.
From the classroom to the community, Tiffany isn't just learning--she's already making a difference.