Shonta Green is double majoring in information technology and computer electronics in his second year at the Sikeston Area Higher Education Center (SAHEC).
Shonta is a non-traditional student at SAHEC and, so far, has enjoyed returning to college.
“Everything’s been working out pretty well,” he said. “I’ve enjoyed being a returning student, and it worked out well for me to work while going to school.”
SAHEC has been a good choice, he said, because “it’s local. It’s also nice being able to set my own hours and to have access to the computer lab. It’s just more convenient for me at Sikeston.”
Shonta said the center’s director, Judy Buck, provides hands-on leadership that is much appreciated by students.
“It’s nice having access to Mrs. Buck, our director. She makes sure everything’s running smoothly for you. For example, one time I needed to change my schedule and missed the date by a couple of days. She called on the phone and was able to change it. She has been really helpful to me.”
The quality of instruction provided at SAHEC also is outstanding, he said.
“Mr. Bruce Hanebrink and Mrs. Sophia Scott are my two favorite professors,” he said. “They give you work and coach you through it. You learn a lot through them.”
Shonta says SAHEC has offered him the opportunity to enroll in interactive television (ITV) courses.
“I took an ITV course last semester and am taking one this semester,” he said. “Mr. Hanebrink was our instructor last semester and it worked out perfectly. I never had any problems with it.”
Shonta has high hopes after graduation. He plans to open his own computer consulting business and to go into electronics. He would also like to teach, preferably at the high school or college level.