Scholarship Helps Support Student’s Legal Career Dreams
By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
For Kevina Aubery, the path to becoming a lawyer starts with dedication, long study hours, and a commitment to her education. The Rio Salado College student is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Public Safety Administration as she works toward her goal of one day attending law school.
“I chose to attend Rio Salado College due to its accessibility and wide range of online classes that accommodated my full-time working schedule,” Aubery said.
Her interest in the administration of justice field is closely tied to her career goals. Aubery plans to work in the legal field after earning her degree and eventually attend law school.
“I am pursuing my dream of becoming a lawyer and this program aligned better academically with my future goals,” Aubery said. “My short-term goal is to become a paralegal once I obtain my bachelor’s degree and continue on to law school for my long-term goal.”
Like many Rio students, Aubery has found that online learning offers flexibility along with responsibility. She appreciates the accessibility of instructors and the support resources available to students, but says staying organized and managing time well are essential.
“Taking online courses has been a learning and humbling experience,” Aubery said. “My biggest advice to online students is that time management is key. Surround yourself with a solid support team because the journey will come with its challenges. Setting aside appropriate time to study and complete assignments is crucial.”
Financial support has also helped Aubery stay focused on her studies. She received a scholarship through the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation, which she says helps reduce financial stress while pursuing her degree.
“Financial stress is one of the biggest stressors for anyone wishing to go back to school,” Aubery said. “Eliminating financial hurdles allows me to focus on my studies and be the best I can be. No one should be denied access to progress their education because of financial limitations.”
Balancing school with other responsibilities requires discipline and planning. Aubery, who works full-time while going to school, says her routine often includes early mornings and late nights, along with making sacrifices to stay on track.
“I learned very early on that there will be sacrifices, both professionally and personally, and other things will take a backseat while balancing life and school,” Aubery said. “In the moment it does feel like I am missing out but the gains and each passing semester I accomplish is taking me closer to my goals.”
Originally from Los Angeles and raised in Phoenix, Aubery graduated from Cesar Chavez High School in 2013. She has already earned a certificate in Administration of Justice and an associate degree in the Administration of Justice Studies from Rio Salado.
Aubery is aiming to graduate from Rio as part of the Class of 2027 with her bachelor’s degree, which will open the next chapter in her journey: law school.
“The completion of my bachelor’s will be opening the next door for me, which is acceptance into law school,” Aubery said.
She encourages future students, especially those balancing work or other responsibilities, to consider Rio’s flexible format.
“I would recommend Rio Salado to future students because this school embodies the future,” Aubery said. “While some students might prefer the traditional college class setting, Rio aligns with parents, working individuals and anyone who needs the availability that Rio offers.”
Apply for a Fall 2026 MCCCD Foundation Scholarship
The Fall 2026 Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation General Scholarship Application is now open and accepting applications. The deadline to apply is April 30, 2026. The General Scholarship isn’t just one scholarship: when you apply for the scholarship, you're applying to hundreds of scholarships with a single application.