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J. Ashley Odell
“My graduation from MCC will symbolize my victory over my physical challenges just as much as it will mark the beginning of a new chapter in my educational journey.”
- Program: 2008 Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship Recipient
- Resides: South Hadley, MA
- Hometown: Manchester, CT
- Age: 23
- Community College: Manchester Community College
- Four-year College or University: Mount Holyoke College
- Academic/Career Pursuits: Education / Academia, Government, Liberal Arts, Nonprofits, Philosophy, Politics and Diplomacy, Public Policy, Public Services, Social Science / Anthropology, Critical Social Thought
- Other Interests: Environmental Science, Film / Photography, Honor Society, Languages, Leadership Development, Literature, Religion, Student Government, Tutoring / Mentoring, Volunteer Work, Writing / Journalism, Organic Gardening, Genealogy, Travelling
Biography
PROFILE: Ashley Odell knew she wanted to become a teacher after a professor invited her to be his teaching assistant for a developmental English course. “My interactions with students in that class helped me to see that teaching felt right, and that I was skilled enough to help make an impact on others.” As an critical social thought major, Ashley feels she will be able to explore all of her varied interests while developing a better understanding of the world around her and her role in it.
Ashley has dealt with numerous health issues that have made attaining educational goals difficult. “Although my experience so far in college has not always been easy, knowing that I have been able to accomplish my goals while overcoming obstacles has made it feel even more rewarding.”
INSPIRATION: One of her college professors has been Ashley’s teacher, friend, and mentor since she started college. He helped her find her calling as a teacher and discover her inner confidence.
ASPIRATION: Ashley aspires to become a teacher and work with disadvantaged students.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Ashley is a student representative and serves on the board of directors of the Manchester Community College Foundation. She is a student trustee for the Connecticut Community Colleges system and has served as a legislative intern to Representative Penny Bacchiochi of the Connecticut General Assembly.
ACCOLADES: Ashley is a member of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society. She was also named one of the 20 most outstanding American community college students for both academics and community service as a member of the All-USA Community College Academic First-Team.
INTERESTING FACT: Ashley was self-taught at home throughout her high school years. She is the youngest of seven siblings.
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