Story by Stella Yackee; Photos by Dana Willi
Jessica Gwosch has a strong passion for working with adult learners one on one to help them turn their dreams into a reality.
When looking to relocate to the Monroe area, Gwosch came across a job listing for an adult learner coordinator at Monroe County Community College.
She recalled how excited she was to come across a listing for a position to work with students on campus and in the community.
“I like helping students navigate challenges, set goals and realize their full potential,” says Gwosch, who accepted the position in April.
Throughout her more than 15 years of experience in support services, teaching, coaching and office administration, she has held several positions. Her most recent position was a student support and operations coordinator for Michigan Technological University.
Gwosch has carried this experience into her current position at MCCC, where she assists students and community members.
There is no better feeling than watching the relief come across students’ faces when she shares the benefits that MCCC’s Momentum Adult Success Program can offer, she said.
The Momentum program is a grant that helps MCCC to provide support for academic, financial and basic needs of adult learners age 21 and older, including mental health services, disability services and tutoring.
The program can be especially helpful to first-generation college students, looking for guidance, Gwosch said.
Gwosch, herself, is a first-generation college student, which also drives her passion to assist adult learners in this new and sometimes daunting process.
Through the Momentum Program, students are able to obtain a GED, degree or certificate, and there is a resource center located in Orchard East Neighborhood at the Arthur Lesow Community Center. The program allows MCCC to take an individualized approach with students who may need resources such as childcare, transportation, food, technology and school supplies.
Gwosch interacts with adult learners on a daily basis, and said she thoroughly enjoys meeting with students face to face and creating a success plan to help guide them through their personal and academic goals.
She currently works with around 30 adult learners through the program.