For Athena Scharenbroch, pursuing an education at Fox Valley Technical College represents more than a career change. It is a pathway to a better future for herself and her two children, A’zhari, 4, and Aurora, 3.
Athena balances the demands of parenthood, caring for her mother through in-home support services, working 20 hours per week and attending school full-time. Despite these challenges, she has excelled academically in FVTC’s Medical Assistant program.
Without FVTC’s wrap-around support and the financial help from scholarships, none of this would be possible.
“When I found out I got a scholarship, it was just a really thankful moment for me,” says Athena. “I was thinking about the donors who invested my future—I was really thankful for it.”
Athena’s educational journey has not always been easy. Lacking strong support or motivation during high school, she left school early and entered the workforce. Over the years, she worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant and later as a hair stylist.
“But I wanted a change,” Athena says. “I wanted to get back in school, and I needed the help and support.”
She found that support through the Starting Point program, which helped her build structure in her life and confidence in herself while connecting her with community resources. Starting Point is a collaborative project with the Women’s Fund for the Fox Valley Region, FVTC, B.A.B.E.S, Inc., the YMCA of the Fox Cities, the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation and the FVTC Foundation.
Athena gained access to child care assistance, career planning, wellness resources and family support services that made returning to school possible.
Having access to the services of the YMCA of the Fox Cities has been a big help. Athena and her children have benefitted from drop-in daycare services, swim lessons and wellness activities. B.A.B.E.S., Inc. also was critical for providing emotional support, as well as diapers, toothpaste, clothes and other basic needs.
Today, Athena is preparing to graduate from the Medical Assistant program and plans to continue directly into the Nursing program, with a long-term goal of working in dermatology and eventually in a medical spa setting.
“As a mom trying to balance everything, finding an institution with a direct career pathway was crucial,” she says.
Receiving a scholarship has eased a significant financial burden during a demanding semester that includes full-time clinical experiences.
The scholarship will help reduce stress, allow her to remain focused on her academic goals and create more quality time with her children. Rather than worrying about finances during clinical rotations, Athena can dedicate her energy to excelling in school and preparing for her future health care career.
Athena is proudest of her ability to successfully balance motherhood while pursuing her education.
“I love caring for people, and I want people to have the best care possible,” she says. “I feel like I can impact people’s lives and be a supportive team player.”
