Celina Clark began her college journey in 2017 when she discovered Amador College Connect in the local newspaper. She started with a business administration course but decided to apply for the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) scholarship program because she wanted a career that would allow her to help people in need. Once she began the MHSA program, she quickly discovered how much she appreciated the camaraderie and support.
While taking care of her dad who was dying of heart failure, Celina learned firsthand what it was like to offer care to someone in need. The doctors gave him only three months to live, but with Celina’s support, he courageously lived on for another six years!
Celina’s academic goal is to complete her associate degree in human services with Coastline College. So far, she has successfully completed three courses and is now taking one this semester. Celina most appreciates how the professors at Coastline genuinely care about their students.
Even though Celina is busy juggling several jobs and college, she still makes time to expand her knowledge by attending the QPR Gatekeeper Training (suicide prevention), as well as her monthly MHSA cohort meetings. She also enthusiastically volunteered to serve at our Barn Dance fundraiser last October at the Laughton Ranch.
Since Celina has experienced two wildfires that required her to evacuate from her home, she aspires to find a career that will allow her to give back to Amador County, where she received assistance when she needed it most. “I would like to use the information I’m learning in human services to help people in Amador County, full-time,” she stated.
When asked about her experience with Amador College Connect, she noted, “The staff are extremely supportive and accommodating. Without them,” she continued, “it would be a long and lonely commute to other community colleges outside of Amador County.”
Celine encourages others to use Amador College Connect as a local resource: “Don’t be afraid to try it out because you don’t know what type of opportunities are out there until you muster up the courage to try.”
We are so fortunate to have such an all-around awesome, service-based individual as Celina Clark right here in our own county!
