Success Story: Marissa O'Connor
Name: Marissa O'Connor
Hometown: Eagle Point, Oregon
High School: Eagle Point High School
College/University: Rogue Community College
Year in school: Junior
Major: Nursing
What/who was the biggest influence on your decision to go to college?
I think I had the biggest influence on myself and going to college. My parents helped me through High School and figuring out my options for college, but I am the one who ultimately had goals in life that without college I would not be able to achieve.
What is one of the best things about college?
I think the best thing about college is that you have the chance to explore. I just decided 2 terms ago that I wanted to pursue a career in nursing. I went through thinking I wanted to be a teacher and then I wanted a degree in Psychology, and now I want to be an RN. College is the pre game towards the rest of your life.
What was your most memorable GEAR UP moment?
My most memorable moment in GEAR UP is probably from 8th grade. We all were talking about what we wanted to be when we grew up and GEAR UP showed us a website where you could look at that career. Everyone had an idea of what they wanted to be. Surprisingly looking back I wanted a job in the medical field, which is what I have been striving towards recently.
What are your future career plans?
I want to eventually be a Registered Nurse.
What advice do you have for students currently in middle and high school GEAR UP programs?
Take advantage of the opportunities GEAR UP gives you!! It is an amazing program that will help you and encourage you to reach your educational goals. I have GEAR UP to thank for making college way less stressful.
