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By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
No two life stories are alike, and no two academic journeys are the same. Some students go the traditional route and attend a four-year university right after high school. For others, college is something that has to fit into a unique life journey.
For Melissa Scriver, it was a hard-fought goal finally realized after triumphing over personal hardship.
“My academic journey has been anything but traditional,” Scriver said. “It has been filled with challenges, setbacks, and long, difficult roads. My journey proves that no matter what hardships you face, you can turn your life around and create a future filled with purpose and achievement.”
Scriver initially started her college path two decades ago at Paradise Valley Community College.
“For the past 20 years, I attempted multiple times to earn my degree but faced many obstacles along the way,” Scriver said.
These challenges included the loss of her mother, domestic violence, and addiction.
Scriver began putting her life back together after having children. She looked to them and her support system when making the decision to go back to school and finally finish her degree.
“My friends, God, and my son were my biggest motivators throughout this journey,” Scriver said. “I was determined to achieve this goal, and with the flexibility and support offered by Rio Salado, I was finally able to make it happen.”
Scriver also credited the flexibility of online programs for her academic success.
“I chose Rio Salado because I’m a mom who was working full-time and needed something flexible that fit into my schedule,” Scriver said. “I knew about Rio’s strong reputation and trusted that it would be a good fit for me.”
Being new to online classes initially caused Scriver to be apprehensive.
“At first, I was intimidated, but I caught on quickly and ended up loving it,” she said. “My instructors and tutors were so supportive, which made all the difference. As long as I stuck to my time management plan, I was successful and really came to enjoy the online environment.”
Along the way, Scriver learned a few tips that helped her stay on track as an online learner.
“I scheduled blocks of time for school into my daily routine,” Scriver said. “Instead of binge-watching shows or getting distracted, I made school a priority. And don’t be afraid to ask for help or tutoring. Support is there. You just have to reach out.”
Scriver recently completed her associate in arts degree with an emphasis in psychology at Rio Salado College, and is already enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in psychology at Grand Canyon University (GCU).
“I chose psychology because I wanted to work in rehab facilities,” Scriver said. “Recovery is a field I’m passionate about. I hope to keep growing in the field and eventually move up to a position where I can counsel and help others even more.”
Scriver is already putting her degree to use as a case manager at Crossroads, an organization offering addiction treatment centers in the greater Phoenix area.
Reflecting on her long degree journey, Scriver is grateful for all she has learned and the life lessons it provided.
“Despite facing grief, addiction, and abuse, I refused to let my past define my future,” Scriver said. “I fought to rebuild my life, not only for myself but also to show my children that resilience and determination can lead to success. Looking ahead, the sky is the limit.”