Elgin Community College CRSS Success Program Student TARA RETONDO

Never in my life, after everything I went through, did I think I would, find a career that encompassed exactly what I wanted to do at the exact moment I was capable of doing it. One that could make such an impact on others, but also on that of myself. For years, I’ve wanted to find some way to work in the mental health field but didn’t know how I would be able. I also found that sharing my story with others helped them feel less alone. The RSS program at Elgin Community College allowed me to blend these two concepts in a beautiful, synchronized harmony.

My time in the RSS program at Elgin Community College was nothing short of extraordinary. Throughout my four semesters I attended, not a day went by that I didn’t feel an overwhelming sense of belonging and purpose being there. I think as I look back on that time my favorite thing about being a part of this program specifically at ECC is how much from the very beginning did I feel welcomed, excitement from everyone there and most importantly was the sense that what we were working towards truly mattered. The professor I had specifically who I grew to admire the most, Andrew Beck, treated us students as his future colleagues that will be just as important to a clients' treatment team as any other mental health professional. All the professors in the ECC program hold a remarkable belief in their students and in their capabilities that I can personally say helped me see that my potential is far greater than I ever considered.

The most valuable experience I had at during this program was when I was doing my first internship and came across a client in crisis. They explained to me just how exhausted they were fighting and did not have the ability to have hope anymore. These words I recognized because they were ones I said myself, many times when I was at my worst. I then said to the client “That’s understandable, with everything you have gone through and how long you have fought it makes sense you can’t have hope right now. I know because I have been there. So you know what all of us, myself included, will hold hope for you until you can once again.” The client smiled and said a simple, “thank you.” As their demeanor changed slightly I knew the impact I had just made, and I knew that there was no other place I was meant to be then right there sitting across someone once as hopeless as me becoming a symbol of hope they so desperately needed.

I can’t speak for how other schools do their RSS program, but I can say that without a doubt I would choose ECC’s program above all else. The classes are laid out in a balance that challenges students to succeed and expand their way of thinking of the human experience, and does all this while still feeling manageable with students current work load. There are lots of times for necessary conversation and important discussions that lead to insightful and meaningful hours that students want to continue even after class has ended. Everyone’s personal experience is acknowledged and celebrated. It creates an energy of positivity and hope, a real wonderful tight nit community. We all look out each other and praise one another. All this and so much more is why I recommend ECC’s RSS program and continue to endorse it even after I have graduated. It does and will always hold a place very near and dear to my heart.

Tara with Professor Beck at the Recovery Support Specialist graduation at Elgin Community College