Katherine Sanders: Starting With One Class

When Katherine Sanders returned to college, she didn’t have a specific plan or goal in mind. She started with just one class.

After stepping away from college during the COVID-19 pandemic and later becoming a mother, Sanders wasn’t sure she would return to school at all. But when she learned about MCC’s University Center and its pathway to a bachelor’s degree, she decided to try college again, enrolling in a single sociology course.

Sanders quickly rediscovered her love of learning. She enjoyed the coursework, especially writing papers, and became even more interested in understanding people and society. At an instructor's encouragement, she joined MCC’s Social Science Club and began taking psychology classes.

“I think MCC was exactly the right fit at exactly the right time,” Sanders said. “It gave me a clear, direct path forward.”

MCC’s affordability and flexibility helped to make that path possible. As a single mother, Sanders needed a college experience that could fit around her responsibilities. She completed her Associate in Arts degree in two years, taking advantage of online courses while also finding a community among classmates who were balancing school with children, jobs, and full lives outside the classroom.

MCC was also a familiar choice for Sanders. Her father and both of her siblings had attended the college and spoke highly of the support and quality of education they received. When Sanders returned to school, she found that same support for herself.

She met regularly with academic advisors to review her progress and map out her coursework, and visited Career Services as she explored potential careers. That guidance helped her connect her interests and strengths with different career paths, ultimately leading her to social work.

The Innovative Bridge and Transitions (IBT) Grant provided another important source of support, offering financial assistance that made continuing her education feel more achievable.

“For me, receiving the grant wasn’t just financial assistance,” she said. “It was a signal that my goals were within reach.”

Today, Sanders is continuing her journey through Aurora University at MCC’s University Center, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work. She is on track to graduate in December 2026. Afterward, she plans to pursue a master’s degree through Aurora’s online advanced standing program—also available through the University Center—with the goal of becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Sanders is already gaining hands-on experience through her internship with Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County, where she spends 16 hours each week supporting community-based social services and youth mentorship.

Looking back, she encourages other students—especially those working, raising children, or returning to school after time away—to take advantage of MCC’s flexibility.

“Whether I was studying at midnight or during a lunch break, MCC made it possible for me to pursue my degree entirely on my own terms,” she said.