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In the summer of 2002 I thought about what I should do with my life since all five of my children were finally older and all in school themselves.  I prayed about what I should do, and it was very clear to me that I should attend college.  I had never attended any schooling past high school, and if something were to happen to my husband, my chances of earning enough money to support my family were slim to none.  I hadn't lived in Raleigh long, so when I was inspired to attend Meredith College, I had to look it up in the phone book.  I had never heard of the college and had no idea where or what it was.

I came to the campus and enjoyed a tour with LeNelle Patrick.  She introduced me to Dr. Huber because I had been thinking about being a Psych major.  Everyone I met was so incredibly kind and friendly, the staff, faculty, and students.  I felt so at home.

The next hurdle was to find the money.  I plain and simply didn't have it.  The financial aid office called me in a week before school was to start, and I figured this is the part where I would have the cold water bucket of reality thrown at me.  I was extremely surprised when they informed me that my entire cost was covered!  I walked out of the building, honestly, with goose bumps and crying because I knew that Meredith College was where I belonged, and I felt happy, relieved, blessed, and at peace with my decision.

LeNelle wisely advised me to attend part time my first semester because I hadn't been to school in 22 years.  My professors, Dr. Aubrecht and Dr. Rosser, were fabulously supportive.  I have found that all the staff has been that way throughout my entire journey at Meredith College. 

My mother passed away my first year at school, and I was in a major car accident my second year.  All of the students, faculty, and staff were so caring and compassionate.  Everyone who could helped me get through those semesters that were especially taxing.  The support I have received and continue to receive is absolutely amazing to me.

I thought I would feel stupid and out of place at a school with a large population of younger, traditional students.  I have never felt either one.  I enjoy classes with these young women who are just beginning their lives and careers.  They help me stay young in my heart and positive about the world around me.  They inspire me to want to be a better person, to help others become their best selves.  I have made many, many friends here at Meredith: staff, faculty, and students of all ages.  Education has no age limit.The 23+ Program has been significant in helping me gain the confidence and knowledge that I am seeking.  I love the unity felt at Meredith College.  I see women of all ages around town with Meredith class rings, and I always strike up a conversation with them about their experience at Meredith College.  Never has anyone been bitter or negative.  That's the beauty of Meredith.  It's like a sisterhood of women who love people and learning.  I don't mean just the students either.

Melanie Lehman
Major: Women’s Studies