Social media is one of the world’s most powerful tools. It can help form connections around the world, grow businesses and start careers. Unfortunately, a platform with that much impact also comes with its own set of risks.
Through her own experiences, Wendi Tackett became increasingly aware of the darker side of social media, which brought upon a calling to help minimize those risks and protect young people online.
This led her back to Mountain Empire Community College (MECC).
Wendi enrolled in the Computer Networking and Cybersecurity program to turn her love of computers and technology into a career protecting the internet from child predators.
“I spend a lot of time on social media myself, and I see the need for cybersecurity,” Wendi said. “My dream is to help eliminate as many child predators online as I possibly can.”
How G3 Gave Wendi a Second Chance at Education
Before her current stint, Wendi had started her MECC journey years ago. Her first pursuit, however, was cut short when she decided to dedicate more of her time and resources to her growing family.
As Wendi’s kids grew older and she had more time on her hands, she saw the opportunity to resume her educational journey. Unfortunately, she still had the same worries most students stumble upon: “How will I pay for tuition? Will I be able to sustain myself?”
Luckily for Wendi, G3 tuition assistance alleviated those concerns.
“If it hadn’t been for this program, I would not have been able to go to college,” Wendi explained. “I don’t have to decide between paying my tuition or buying groceries for dinner.”
Navigating an Online Program
Thanks to the flexibility of MECC’s online program, time with her family is still Wendi’s top priority. The flexibility of asynchronous classes has allowed her to put them and herself first.
While the online program works seamlessly for Wendi, she’s aware that it doesn’t come without its challenges.
“You really need to have determination within yourself,” Wendi said. “If you’re not prepared to read and study without being in a classroom environment, then it’s not going to work.”
Despite being in a virtual program, Wendi has found it easy to connect with her classes and professors.
While Mr. Ritchie Deel, who serves as both her advisor and instructor for Python Programming and Network Security Basics, is her favorite professor, she sings high praises for all her instructors.
“All of my professors are wonderful,” Wendi stated. “If you have a question, they get back to you as soon as they possibly can. Professor Dill has been patient with me because I have had a lot of questions.”
Wendi’s Advice for Future Students
Living in a rural area can sometimes serve as a challenge when choosing a career.
Thanks to the large demand for skilled computer networking employees and the wide array of remote jobs that come with it, a career in cybersecurity serves as a great option for students that live in Appalachia and other rural areas.
For those considering community college, MECC, cybersecurity or all the above, Wendi can offer a bit of helpful advice.
“Pay attention,” Wendi said. “Read as much as you possibly can, and just have fun.”
As for herself, Wendi’s G3 journey has prompted some words of wisdom.
“I would tell my younger self that I was going to go through a lot of things, but ultimately, I’m going to find a career that I’m really interested in,” Wendi said. “I feel like I’m on the right path now. Finally.”
