Motlow Student Alexandria Williams Overcomes Visual Impairment to Earn Associate of Science Degree

(When Motlow Student Alexandria Williams received her diploma at the College’s 2023 Commencement ceremony, she proved that anything was possible. Alexandria, who is visually impaired, earned an Associate of Science degree in General Studies. She will continue her studies at Middle Tennessee State University, using scholarship monies awarded during last fall’s Motlow Disability Resource Fair. This is Alexandria’s life journey in her own words.) 

“When people ask me how I do it, I tell them to always try your best with everything you do. I see my disability as a gift.” -- Alexandria Williams, graduate of Motlow State Community College

Motlow graduate Alexandria Williams (left) with Yeulanda Pierce-Beverly, assistant director of Motlow's Disability and Counseling Department (Photos By Christian O'Grady)

The Beginning:

My name is Alexandria Nicole Williams, and I am about to be 24 years old. My life began when I was born on Dec. 15, 1999. I was born at Southern Hills hospital at 12:46 p.m. My parents are Taronda Williams (my mom), and Douglas Williams (my dad). My birth came with a few complications. I spent some time in the ICU after my birth due to my fast breathing. Before I was born, my mom did have a few things going on in her pregnancy. The doctors spotted that there was something wrong with my eyes. After my birth, we discovered that I had cataracts in both eyes. 

Cataracts are where the lenses of the eyes become cloudy. I was operated on at two weeks old to remove them from my eyes. About three months later, the doctors discovered that I had glaucoma in both eyes. Glaucoma is a disease where the eye pressures are not stabled. I now must go every six months to get my eye pressures checked to make sure that they are not too high or too low. Later, I had retina detachments. I also have nystagmus. That is when my eyes move with no control. I don’t like having pictures taken because I cannot control my eyes. The photographer will need to tell me where to look, so I can focus my eyes on them. 

I have had many surgeries during my lifetime. When my lenses were removed, I had to wear contacts. Once I was old enough to stop my mom from putting my contacts in, I started wearing glasses. At age 12, I lost vision in my left eye. We did not find out until a week later during my eye exams. I waited a week to tell anyone because I thought it was normal to see out of one eye. I was rushed into emergency surgery that next day, but the doctors could not save my eye. Now I only have one good eye, so we are trying to preserve the vision I have left. 

Unfortunately, I had to have another eye surgery. The stiches in my left eye were eroding away and coming apart. Thankfully, my specialist caught it early before my eye could catch any infection. I had surgery on Jan. 12, 2023 to get my stitches replaced.  I was a bit nervous, but I had faith that everything would turn out okay. 

I also did not go to a regular school. At age 3, I was in a peer program at Rock Springs Elementary School. My teacher was Ms. Molly. I also had early intervention with vision teachers and specialists. At age 6, I started school at Tennessee School for the blind, also known as TSB. This school is specifically for the blind and visually impaired. After I lost my vision in my left eye, I was taught to read and write braille. Braille is a code that blind people use to read and write. I also use assistive technology such as ZoomText, screen readers, voiceover, Siri and many others. I also learned independent living skills, so I would be prepared for the real world.  I participated in sports like track, cheerleading and goalball. Goalball is a sport specifically for the blind. I also participated in forensics aka public speaking, YELL, which stands for Youth excel Learning in Leadership, and I also was in student council as an events representative. 

I also traveled to many other states as well. I went to other states for sports conferences, and I went to Colorado for the annual ski trip that the seniors go on every year. In total, I went to 11 states during my lifetime. I participated in Midstate choir, art contests, recitals, and many more. I graduated high school as valedictorian of my graduating class. After high school, I went to TRC for a VIS and VOC evaluation. Afterward, I went to a camp called CHIPS, Intro into Coding. I had struggles at first, but the staff accommodated me very well. I was even featured in their article and got interviewed for Vanderbilt college students. 

Her Journey Begins at Motlow:

Finally, my journey began at Motlow State. I did have many struggles while being on campus, but Disability Service always had my back when needed. I know that my life story is a long one, but I feel very proud of myself with all that I accomplished. 

I have accomplished many things during my life. Everyone will usually be surprised or even underestimate me because I have a vision impairment. When people ask me how I do it, I tell them to always try your best with everything you do. I see my disability as a gift. We are all human no matter the mistakes we make or how different we are. I never judge anyone regardless of their circumstances, regardless of their disability, gender, race, or their past. I have empathy for others. I rather put others’ needs before my own. My worst fears are going completely blind as well as disappointing my parents. I just want them to be proud of me. I want them to be happy. Even if I cannot please others. Sometimes, they will even underestimate me because I am blind. Sometimes, I feel like they defy me by the grades I get in school or college. I never let that stop me from being successful for myself. I stay strong, think positive, and always try to do my very best. Even if some situations are out of my control. 

Recently, I received a scholarship to MTSU by Motlow, and I am very thankful for this opportunity.  I also was granted a $3,000 scholarship as well to MTSU. I am very grateful for them. It was a big surprise for me. My parents knew about it, but I did not. I am also very thankful for being interviewed and writing this article for The Motlow Buzz.  I still have no idea on what I want to do as a career path. My mom stated that I needed a job that I can do in case I go completely blind. People also asked me the same questions. I always tell them to think about this thought: Would you want to go to a job where you constantly hate going to? You are not good at the job where you are, and you get underpaid. The real world even rejects people with disabilities. I want a job where I have experience. I want to go work at a place where I will enjoy. I want to focus on the present. The future is never promised to anyone. I fear about going blind completely, but I could also die tomorrow. No one knows the future, so it is best to focus on the present. Enjoy life while you can because life is too short. 

Overcoming the Covid Challenge:

One of the challenges I faced was being at Motlow during Covid. I was still getting used to being on campus, and I made a few friends to help me around. Once Covid hit, we had to transfer to online learning. The campus itself was still unsure how to accommodate me, but I started to like doing my classes at home. I have everything that I need at home to do my schoolwork. I did pretty well until I had a few professors that gave me issues. I will not mention any names of my professors because I don’t like pointing people out. 

I took an Introduction to Communications class, and it was okay. I did have some struggles such as the tests and quizzes. I also was very lost with the silent film that we had to watch. I can’t read subtitles, and I can’t see movies in black and white. I felt like I was not going to pass, but the professor gave me some grace. 

Another issue I had was my campus class and statistics. The campus class was an astronomy class, but it was fully online. I had trouble doing the labs, and the tests were too long for me to handle. I barely passed that class with a D. I felt upset because I figured my parents would be upset. My mom has brought it up a few times, but my dad was okay with it. I tried my best. 

Finally, I took a statistics class, and it was over Zoom. The first day was okay until the professor started teaching. I could not see the graphs, so I would write in the chat room to him. He also picked favorites in his class and gave them praise. He would also ignore my messages as well. After class, I emailed the professor with my concerns, and I also contacted Disability Services. Ms. Yeulanda was always on top of things. I had a meeting with her over the phone explaining my issues. She tried to have a meeting with my teacher about my issues, but the next week, nothing changed. 

We were going to have a test the following week, and I got really upset. I told my parents what happened, so we ended up dropping me out of the class. I was very thankful because the class gave me stress. It was better for me to drop the class instead of setting myself up for failure. The struggles are very much real, but I kept going. I kept trying. Sometimes, life does test me, and there are times where I do feel down and bad for myself because I’m blind. The one wish I have is to be cured. I want my sight back. Despite my struggles and challenges, I try to be positive in the situations. I try to problem solve the best I can. Sometimes I hate asking for help, but there are times when I did need help from others. Some things you cannot do alone. Some situations are out of your control or too big to handle. It’s also great to have a support system for hard times. Teamwork, trying your best, being positive, and putting in your best effort is the key to success. 

Alexandria’s Advice to Others:

If I could give advice to other students with disabilities, it would be to never give up. Life is like a roller coaster. You will have twists and turns as life goes on. You will face challenges, and you can either go up or down. Always ask for help if you need it. Advocate for yourself. No one can read your mind to know what you need. Build a good support system. Find others who are willing to help you. Never feel like a burden because you are better than that. You have so much potential to put into this world. Your disability is not a curse. It is a unique part of you, and you are gifted. You are a blessing. If you need a friend, I will be here to help you if needed. 

Alexandria’s Creative Activities:

As I mentioned before, I am still figuring out my career plans. After Motlow, I will go to MTSU. I also have several hobbies that I like to do. I love singing, dancing, making TikTok’s, storytelling, writing fanfictions, and I even love to make videos. I currently have a TikTok account with 61K followers, a YouTube channel with almost 700 subscribers, and an Instagram account with 200 followers. I play toca life world. It is a game that can be educational. You can role play and make your own avatar. I make videos that tell stories. I make screen record videos, and I have learned to edit them with VITA. It’s a video editing app. I post on my socials at least a few times a day. I also have a Facebook and Instagram. I am also a child at heart, and I love to make art like drawing, digital paintings, coloring, pipe cleaner art, and much more. I feel like I could have many jobs with my talents. I’m still exploring my options, so I hope I can decide soon. 

Special Thanks:

I cannot thank everyone enough for supporting me through this journey. Mr. Garner helped me with my courage. He got me ready for life at Motlow and beyond. Ms. Adams helped me to come out of my shell. She understood if we had problems. Ms. Syler was creative and funny. I loved her sociology class. Ms. Janice helped me with understanding teachers and students. Ms. Jennifer Shaw made geology class fun and easy for me to understand. Ms. Pierce always had my back if I was having issues or needed help. My TSB family was always a support system to me while I was in high school. I even made a few friends at Motlow. 

Prentis always was there for me. She offered to drive me home when I had no transportation. Salua helped me during my night classes. Ashlei helped me when Prentis wasn’t around. Ronda was in my music class, and she helped me with taking notes. Tammy even helped me in geology. Lastly, I thank my parents for always supporting me during my struggles and successes as well as my family. 

Accomplishments:

There are two things that happened to me, and they were life changing. Back when I was 9 years old, I participated in a huge art contest. I had to make a drum out of toilet paper, rubber bands, and a pencil and balloon. With some help from a few staff members, I made my drum with a creative touch. I even made it pretty with Indian feathers. I submitted my peace, and I won first place. My family and I got to go to Washington, D.C., for a ceremony. I got to meet the government in Congress, and we went sightseeing. I even got to go inside the Capitol. Now my drum is currently sitting in a glass case in their mall. I even still have the picture of it as well as the golden plaque. That trip was also when my life changed. I fell while walking down a flight of concrete stairs. I did not get hurt, but we decided that it was time for me to use a cane. 

Another memory I had was in 2017. I was the outstanding cheerleader on my squad. The outstanding cheerleader must give an introductory speech and perform a cheer routine all by themself. This includes a dance and a cheer, and it must be no more than 3 minutes long. You also cannot have any help. I usually tend to procrastinate, so I kind of made up the routine as I went along. I performed it the night of our cheering competition in Kentucky. During the awards ceremony, I won first place for my school and state. I was so proud of myself. 

Lastly, during my graduation, I had to give a speech for being valedictorian. My parents were worried for me. I wrote my speech in braille, so I was the only person who could read it. I was able to memorize it, and I did well at graduation. 

Her Future:

As for my college major, I fall under an Associate of Science, but it is really a General Studies major. Because I am still deciding on what I really want to do, we decided to get my general education out of the way. When I go to MTSU in the fall, I can focus on my degree for the career I choose. 

Role Model:

Some of you may be wondering who I look up to as a role model. I honestly do not have a famous person in mind. When I was young, my music therapist was always the person I talked to if I was having issues. She understands me as a person. She was also my piano and voice teacher. She helped me when I was going through home and friend drama. I call her my role model because she was always there if I needed her. Along with my parents and grandmother. 

Videos, Stories and Toys:

As I mentioned earlier, I love video editing. I play toca life world, and I make videos to post on social media. People love the videos I make. I love telling stories and role playing. I have even reached the point where I could make money if I wanted to. YouTube pays you to put ads in your videos. TikTok has a marketplace, a creator’s fund, and you can post video ads to make money. 

I am also a child at heart. I love stuffed animals, and I still do play with dolls. I collect LOL Surprise dolls, and I do unboxings on my other YouTube channel. My videos get at least more than 1K views a day. I may be an adult, but sometimes it’s okay to have fun and be yourself. I see nothing wrong with it. Embrace your inner child sometimes. 

I even own Mochi Squishy Fidget toys. They are great for stress, and everyone can play with them. I’m obsessed with Pomeranians, and I would love to own one one day. They are small, great guard dogs, and they can qualify as a service dog if we decide that I need one. I also love writing fanfictions. I have an account on fanfiction.net and on Wattpad. I currently am writing a book. Hopefully, it will be finished soon. Lastly, I love to do art. I love coloring, drawing, digital art on procreates, and pipe cleaner art. I hope to some day sell my artwork on places like Etsy or eBay.

 

Alexandria’s Family:

I have a big family on both sides. I also have my TSB family that I still contact sometimes. I call them my family as well because they have been there for me since I was young. Besides my parents, my grandmother and aunt basically raised me. They were more than just my sitters growing up. There is not much to say about my family. I am very grateful for everyone who has made an impact in my life. I see my mom’s side of the family once a year around thanksgiving. I sometimes see my dad’s side at family events. 

After Covid hit, I became more into myself. I started to have social anxiety because I feel weird around other people. I sometimes feel like I still have a mind of a kid. I hope to work more on that soon. 

Winning Awards:

Finally, I have received many awards during my lifetime. As I mentioned before, I won first place for an art competition when I was 9. I also won other art contest and got third place. I was on the La Vergne peewee cheerleading for the little leagues football team. Our cheer team won third place, and I got another cheer award at age 7. 

I won second place in a poem and short story contest. I wrote a story called “The Cat with No Eyes.” It’s about a cat with eye cancer, and the cat gets adopted by a girl who’s deaf. They end up building a relationship together. 

I also won cheer conferences, goalball games, and we even did well in track and public speaking. I got an award in peewee wrestling and cheerleading, My YELL graduation, and my high school graduation. I also did well in the annual braille challenge and academic challenge at TSB. 

Now, I have been granted two scholarships to MTSU by Motlow, and I could never thank everyone enough. I even got on honor roll and the principals list during school for good grades. I can proudly say that I have accomplished a lot while growing up. Now, I have just graduated from Motlow. 

I would just like to thank Motlow for giving me this opportunity to share my stories and experiences with everyone. I give thanks to Mr. Whiting for interviewing me for The Motlow Buzz. I thank Ms. Pierce for always helping me with accommodations and resolving issues. Lastly, I thank my huge family for their support. 

Never Give Up:

To everyone who may have a disability or struggling, never ever give up. You are a blessing. Never judge anyone, and never let words or actions hurt you. You are strong. The experiences you may have, whether good or bad, will help shape you as a person. Don’t look back on the past. Instead, keep going forward. If there is anything that the Bible has taught me, everything is possible with God. The sky is the limit. Go for it. 

Always make wise choices and think outside of the box. Learn to problem solve, advocate for yourself. Build a great support system and learn to forgive. We are all human, and we are not perfect. We make mistakes but learn from the experiences and consequences. 

Lastly, always try your best and give your all in everything that you do. Like I always say to everyone, “If you believe in yourself, then you can change the world.” Happy summer break to all, and I wish nothing but the best in the future. 

Dance Across the Decades at Motlow

 

By Kia Dowen

Motlow Buzz Student Editor-in-Chief

 

SMYRNA, Tenn. – The Smyrna Entertainment Arts & Media Club is hosting "Dance Across the Decades" with the help of the Student Government Association on March 31 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m in the Mary Lou Apple building lobby.

 

"Dance Across the Decades" is a student dance aimed at celebrating iconic moves and music from the past 100 years. This event will include educational performances and activities like dance lessons, bingo, trivia, prizes and a raffle. Free food and drink will be provided by SGA.

 

This event will be dedicated to raising awareness for the Smyrna Senior Activities Center. This local non-profit needs student and community volunteers to help with everything from web design to social media and more.

 

If you would like to learn more about these volunteer opportunities, please email SmyrnaSeniorCenter@gmail.com

Motlow Students to 'Dance Across The Decades' on March 31

 

Country Music Legend Frankie Staton to Speak at Motlow Smyrna on March 2

             SMYRNA -- Legendary Nashville Singer-Songwriter Frankie Staton will share insights on the growing success of Black artists in the country music industry during a special presentation on the Motlow Smyrna campus on March 2 (Thursday).  

            Staton’s talk, “How Black Artists Are Changing the Country Music Landscape,” will occur from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in Room 323 of the HSC Building. Seating is available by reservation on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, contact Professor Charles Whiting at cwhiting@mscc.edu.  

 

            “This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to learn from one of most prominent and hard-working singer-songwriters in the country music industry,” Whiting said. “Frankie founded and led the Black Country Music Association for more than 20 years, helping countless emerging and professional Black artists achieve their dreams.” 

 

            Frankie recently achieved a lifelong dream by performing on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry. Her performance was heard by thousands of listeners on legendary radio station WSM-AM. She received a standing ovation for “Forever, Loretta,” a song dedicated to her late idol, Loretta Lynn.  

 

            The artist took action in the late 1990s after a New York Times story claimed there was no diversity in country music. She founded the Black Country Music Showcase at the Bluebird Café, providing national exposure for more than 60 country singers of color. Those efforts canonized Frankie on the Nashville music scene, sparking a national conversation that has continued to this day in publications such as Rolling Stone magazine.  

 

            Frankie has been featured in the Amazon documentary, “For Love & Country.” She recently was chosen to participate in the upcoming exhibition “American Currents: The State of the Music Unbroken Circle” at the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum in downtown Nashville.  

 

            “I woke up singing songs I was hearing in my dreams,” said Frankie, who began nurturing her passion for music in the 1970s as a singer and pianist at the High Point Market, the world’s largest furnishings trade show. “The event, which attracted anywhere from 70,000 to 80,000 attendees, gave me a global audience during my first five years as a musician.” 

 

            Frankie quickly found success after moving to Nashville in 1981. A residency at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel & Convention Center led to appearances on “The Ralph Emery Show” on WSMV-TV (Channel 4) and the nationally aired “Nashville Now” talk show on TNN: The Nashville Network. 

 

            “My approach to performing proved to be ahead of its time in a city that was not familiar with African-American women in the country music scene,” Frankie added. 

Motlow Buzz Launches Print Edition

  SMYRNA — The Motlow Buzz educational student newspaper is launching a one-page print edition that provides an overview of services and special activities for students on the Motlow Smyrna campus. 

The print version will be overseen by newly appointed Student Editor-in-Chief Kia Dowen. Students can pick up their complimentary copy in the Smyrna Library. Contributors will include students Joani Edens and Megan Goble. 

        Communication majors use The Buzz to gain invaluable experience for future jobs in books, newspapers, magazines, recording industry, radio, television, movies, and the internet. Students benefit by receiving helpful news about important happenings on the Motlow Smyrna campus.

        The publication is listed as a High Impact Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning.

The e-news and blog versions of The Motlow Buzz will continue to provide in-depth stories and photos by students and faculty members. The publication, which was named by students, was created in a Media Writing class in 2014.

To learn more, visit https://motlowbuzz.blogspot.com/. 

Priority Press - From The Motlow Buzz Printed Edition - Issue One

By Kia Dowen

Motlow Buzz Student Editor-in-Chief

Graduation Prep

SMYRNA -- Sophomores should begin to prepare for graduation by submitting their Intent to Graduate and signing up for their Exit Exam. Students planning to transfer from Motlow should begin to request transcripts from prior institutions and submit formal applications.

The Intent to Graduate form is located in the MyMotlow student portal in the student tab under Admissions and Record Forms. The submission deadline is Feb. 15 as this must be reviewed by both your advisor and completion coach for approval.

Once the Intent to Graduate form is processed, students will receive an email regarding the Exit Exam, whereby scheduling is arranged by the student through the testing center for testing at any location the student finds available with a computer.

It is very important that students complete the Intent to Graduate and Exit Exam to graduate.

Transfer Prep

Students that plan to transfer into another post-secondary institution should research application deadlines and transfer scholarship eligibility. Many of these programs allow early application and require it for their best transfer scholarships.

MTSU is currently accepting applications for the Fall 2023 term. This neighbor university provides a guaranteed $3,000 per year in aid for up to two years for any Motlow student transferring into the establishment with 60 credits and a 3.0 GPA. To meet eligibility, student applications must be completed with all corresponding paperwork by Feb. 15.

Student questions regarding these opportunities can be answered in more detail by the Student Success Center, completion coach, or faculty advisor. Students may contact a designated transfer coordinator for questions about transferring into MTSU specifically.

* Student Success Center: 615-220-7854

* Completion Coach: [completioncoaches@mscc.edu]

* www.mtsu.edu/how-to-apply/contact.php

(Click on Transfer Students and your County)

Motlow 4 U

SMYRNA -- Motlow offers a variety of convenient resources to help students navigate and succeed in their pursuits. The following programs are available to all registered Motlow students free of charge.

Counseling Services

Feeling overwhelmed by stress or hardship? Not sure where to begin in tackling an obstacle in your life? Counseling services are available to all Motlow students free of charge though both in-person and Zoom meetings. There is “no problem too small or too large.” – Lisa Stone, LMFT

931-393-1960 | counseling@mscc.edu

AWJ 103 | Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Writing Center

Need help with a paper? Struggling to get citations down pat? Has eye strain gotten too intense to do any more revision? Maybe you’re not even sure where to start. Utilize the Writing Center for live or dropbox appointments!

       Students can access the Writing Center through the MotlowHub.

Math Lab

The Math Lab is open to all students via Zoom appointment.

Visit www.motlow.edu/academics/programs/tutoring/ and click on Math Lab and call the number listed for the day you want help.

Net Tutor

Are you taking a foreign language? Need help with a not-so-easy to classify class? NetTutor is a multi-disciplinary tutoring service that covers topics from Astronomy, Chemistry, and Finance, to Nursing, Poli Sci, and more.

      Login to D2L and find the link for NetTutor under Tutoring Services.

Get Involved!

SMYRNA -- There are a host of current opportunities for students to get more involved with Motlow and engage in resumé and portfolio-building opportunities.

Bucks Closet

Bucks Closet is the only Motlow clothing closet for professional wear and needs volunteers to model clothing and to operate and promote the program. Bucks Closet is located in HSC 317 and currently operates on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Interested students should email BucksCloset@mscc.edu.

Phi Theta Kappa

The Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society Motlow chapter is seeking members to help connect with students, administration, and the community. While formal membership holds certain requirements, all Motlow Students are invited to become volunteer members and can use PTK experiences to build their leadership skills and resumé.

Interested students should email advisor Misty Griffith at MGriffith@mscc.edu.

The Motlow Buzz

The Motlow Buzz is currently seeking writers to cover Motlow sports and arts.

Potential writers should email Professor Whiting at CWhiting@mscc.edu.

 

Motlow Smyrna Library Offers Helpful Services and Resources

By Kelly Tilton

Motlow Buzz Contributing Writer

SMYRNA — The Motlow Smyrna Library, led by Branch Librarian Kelly Tilton, is excited to offer many helpful services and resources for Motlow students. 

  

Starting with what’s new, the library’s XR Lab has officially opened on the second floor of the Hyatt-Spivey Center. The room is equipped with some amazing technology, including Alienware Aurora R8 desktop computers, zSpace AR/VR laptops, Oculus Quest 2 VR headsets, and a wide assortment of apps – educational and recreational.The XR Lab hours are 9-11 a.m. and 1-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday and by appointment on Fridays, unless otherwise posted. Visit the XR Lab in HSC 217! 

Tilton said he is thrilled to announce many new items added to the Smyrna library collection. If you’re a fan of tabletop games or board games, be on the lookout! The Smyrna library has books and resources for many popular titles: "Dungeons & Dragons," "Monster of the Week," "Fiasco!," "Munchkin," "Uno," and more.

Enjoy graphic novels? The library has added dozens of new titles – both recent and classic from indie and major publishers – to the Smyrna Library’s collection. Stop by and see what’s new. 

Returning to more familiar services, the library continues to offer device checkouts for students, including laptops, WIFI hotspots, iPads, Ti-84 graphing calculators, and more. Items can be borrowed for a period of either one or two weeks during the semester, depending on the device type. 

“We have plenty of space for individual students or groups to work in the library, including our six study rooms, Computer Lab, and quiet study, carrel area,” Tilton said. “Printing, faxing and copying services are still free. We still have our daily free coffee and snacks – while supplies last – and have recently added a hot water dispenser. As always, Smyrna library staff are happy to assist students search for resources and develop long-term research strategies that work.”

 

The Smyrna Library is the first stop in the Hyatt-Spivey Center – HSC 113. Spring semester hours are 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Questions or comments can be sent to Smyrna branch librarian Kelly Tilton at ktilton@mscc.edu.  

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Psi Beta Attends Tennessee Psychology Association Conference

By Joan Edens

Motlow Buzz Contributing Writer

      SMYRNA, Tenn. – Five Motlow Psi Beta Honor Society student members and their sponsor attended the 2022 Tennessee Psychological Association (TPA) Conference in Nashville on Oct. 28, 2022, enabling them to engage directly with psychology professionals.

      Motlow Smyrna attendees included sponsor Psychology Professor Katherine Hayes, Psi Beta President Emily Alvarado, Vice President Joan Edens, Secretary Ellen Seifert, and Liberty Sexton. One Motlow Moore County Psi Beta member, Monica Rodriguez Varas, joined as well.

      The students started the day by attending their choice of professional continuing education seminars. They then rejoined for lunch at the TPA annual business meeting. These events allowed the students to interact with and learn from psychology professionals in a wide range of practice types and focuses.

 

      “I hope that the conference excites interest in psychology,” Hayes said. “I hope they get to form connections and network with other professors and professionals.”

Pictured (L-R) are Ellen Seifert, Liberty Sexton, Emily Alvarado, Joan Edens, Professor Kate Hayes, and Monica Rodriguez Varas.

      Hayes saw her wish for her students come true at the conference. Attendees Sexton and Alvarado both reported that their biggest interests included wanting to learn more about psychology in the presentations and taking advantage of the networking opportunities. 

      “I’ve never been to something like this. I like to learn. I’m working toward a career in psychology, so the prospects for networking are exciting,” Alvarado said. 

      “I’m interested in hearing professionals speak about subjects I don’t know much about,” Sexton said.

      Three of the five students attended the seminar, “Including People with Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities into Practice: Treatments that Work,” presented by Dr. Susan Redmond-Vaught. Redmond-Vaught is the director of psychology at Western State Hospital in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. 

      Two students attended a seminar given by J. Christopher Young, who has a doctorate in neuropsychology, “Dementia Toolbox: Essentials for Clinicians Working with the Diverse Population of Older Adults.” Young is a clinical neuropsychologist who practices at Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation in Chattanooga.

      All attendees joined in the foyer of the host hotel, Sonesta Nashville Airport, during a break in the three-plus-hours-long session to network. The students engaged attendee, children’s mental health author, and licensed clinical psychologist Christine Manley of Nashville in a conversation about the pros and cons of private practice.

      Manley identified several paths to careers in psychology and left as many questions as answers for the students. A suggestion was made to set up a public panel of TPA professionals to be held at Motlow for all interested students to help answer some of them for a broader audience. Hayes agreed to the plan and proposed that the students coordinate a panel with the TPA for Spring 2023. 

      Once the seminars were completed, the group moved to the TPA lunch and business meeting. Lunch comprised three courses including salad, chicken and vegetables and a raspberry cheesecake dessert. The banquet tables sat eight each and seating was mixed. Three attendees sat at one of the round tables with a group of professionals and their spouses while the rest sat at another. 

      The table arrangement promoted networking and the students engaged in more personal conversations with doctors, psychologists, neuropsychologists and their spouses as they ate before the general meeting. Shared stories ranged from experiences with the TPA to gardening tips. 

      “What stood out the most to me was the conversations at the table. I was sitting with three past presidents of TPA. One of the ladies at the table continuously tried to involve us in the conversation, which I appreciated,” Alvarado said.

      The final presentations of the day were provided by the TPA officers who had coordinated the conference. The students learned about laws being discussed at the state level that may have an impact on psychiatric practices, how the TPA lobbies on behalf of member psychologists and their patients, continuing education opportunities provided by TPA and how professional members can serve fellow members and contribute to the health of the association. 

      After the business meeting, Hayes introduced the students to TPA Executive Director Elise Oehring, a licensed psychologist with a private practice in Nashville. Oehring invited the students to contact her with any questions they might have about obtaining their doctorates or about the TPA. She was excited to see Motlow participate in the conference. Other students had participated in Thursday’s poster presentation events, but the students from Motlow were the only ones to attend Friday’s seminars and TPA meeting.

      A couple of days after returning home, Edens approached Oehring about potential involvement in the suggested psychology professions panel. Oehring agreed, and Hayes gained approval for Psi Beta to co-host the panel during the spring semester with Motlow Smyrna campus. It will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 28.

      TPA panel members have been selected to represent a variety of psychology career paths and certifications to best answer a broad range of student questions. The event will be free and open to all interested students currently enrolled with Motlow or Middle Tennessee State University. Speakers, faculty and special guests will be available to network with the students following the panel. Box lunches will be provided to those who pre-register.

      To learn more about the club, contact Instructor Katherine Hayes at khayes@mscc.edu. To learn more about the Professional Pathways in Psychology speakers’ panel and obtain the link to pre-register, contact Psi Beta Vice President Joan Edens at jedens0106@mscc.edu. 

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Academic Resource Center Changes Teaching Landscape at Motlow State Community College

(Note: Associate Professor of History Ramona Shelton serves Motlow as director of the newly established Academic Resource Center. She provides details about the ARC’s purpose and goals in the following interview.) 

Ramona Shelton, Associate Professor of History and
Director of the newly established Academic Resource Center

Question: Describe the newly opened Academic Resource Center. 

Answer: The Academic Resource Center is a hub for faculty members to find support. The goal of the ARC is to provide training and professional development for Motlow’s full- and part-time faculty members. Faculty are all subject matter experts in their fields, but it can sometimes be challenging to know how to do all the extra “classroom” stuff or to learn new techniques and collaborate with others so the ARC strives to bridge that gap. All of the ARC coordinators are faculty members, so who better to help and support their colleagues?!? Currently, the ARC is completely virtual, but the plan is to not only expand our offerings as we move into Phase Two and Three, but also to ultimately have brick-and-mortar locations at all of our campuses. 

 

Question: What are High Impact Practices? 

Answer: High Impact Practices, or HIPs, were officially given that name in 2010 by George Kuh, an academic researcher, but these are things that faculty have been doing in our classrooms for years. HIPs are practices that add another layer to the subject that is being taught in a particular class, often giving students the chance to learn life or job skills that will help them long after they have graduated from Motlow. HIPs take many forms and new ones have been added as new ideas become important. HIPs designated courses do not include more work but rather specifically tailored work that further ties the course to that particular HIP.

Motlow currently offers several different HIPs in our courses. Some are “catalog level” HIPs, which mean that every section of that particular course, regardless of the professor or modality, has the practices embedded into the course. These include Certifications, First Year Experience, Honors Education, Learning Communities, Study Abroad, and Work-Based Learning.

“Section level" HIPs are more instructor-driven. These include Global Cultural Awareness, Service Learning, Technology Enhanced Learning, and Undergraduate Research. Faculty members submit applications to the Academic Resource Center to get their courses designated for these HIPs. In doing this, the faculty members show how they have crafted assignments and coursework that meets the minimum definition for their chosen HIPs. Because instructors apply for this designation, you won’t see these HIPs across the board in all courses. For example, one history instructor may have been approved for their section(s) to be classified for Global Cultural Awareness while others may not. 

Question: Explain the HIP course-badging process at Motlow State Community College.   

Answer: As stated above, HIPs that are considered catalog level are already built into many of our courses. For example, Motlow’s Honors program is built of courses that have met the rigorous standards of the program coordinator, so that HIP is inherent to the Honors courses. The same can be said of Motlow’s MSCC 1300 First Year Experience Courses. 

However, faculty members may do different activities for the section-level HIPs that are tied to their particular disciplines. Since this is unique to that particular professor, he/she goes through the application process, explaining not only how their courses meet the minimum definition for the HIP, but also describe the assignments within their courses that give students the opportunity to master the HIP. For example, one of our history instructors has a course coded for Undergraduate Research where his students will complete a research project for the class and will also have the opportunity to present their findings at our Fall 2022 Undergraduate Research Symposium. This gives students the opportunity to hone their research, writing, and presentation skills- things that will come in handy with most jobs and upper level college courses.

 

Question: How do students benefit from HIP-directed teaching? 

Answer: HIPs designated courses have extra layers that are specific to that HIP. These all give students the opportunity to add to their experiences and skill sets. Students in a Service Learning HIPs course have the chance to work on projects and events that are beneficial to the community. Study Abroad courses really do broaden a student’s horizon because they give him/her the chance to immerse themselves in a completely different country’s culture… while earning college credit! Students in any Motlow course are going to get an outstanding learning experience, but the HIPs designated courses give students the chance to go above and beyond. 

 

Question: How can HIP-focused courses enhance career opportunities for students? 

Answer: Most Motlow courses give students the opportunity to build those “soft skills” that employers are looking for, but HIPs-coded courses definitely expand on that. In addition to all the extras that I mentioned above, there are several other things that are career specific. For example, many of our Certifications-coded courses give students the opportunity to earn a certification or micro-credential that may give them a +1 when potential employers look at their resumes. 

In addition, students have access to an expanded digital transcript, referred to as their Comprehensive Learner Record. Not only does this list all of the courses they have successfully completed during their tenure at Motlow, but it also includes a listing of the HIPs the student earned with descriptions of what was part of this process. Prospective employers will be able to see this information, which will show that Motlow’s students have both the education and the skills that make them excellent employee material!

 

Question: Provide an example of a course that has incorporated HIPs activities for hands-on learning. 

Answer: I can give you an example from my courses. My Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 Early World History and Modern World History courses were designated for the Technology Enhanced Learning HIP. We have a tendency to think that history and technology don’t get along well with each other, but Motlow has invested in VR/XR technology that is available through our Motlow Library. For one of their assignments, my students visited one of our library branches and used the technology to “experience” history. Some of the options in the library XR catalog include exploring a Medieval castle and visiting Anne Frank’s house. As much as I love telling stories in my classes, I think that this gives our students the opportunity for an enhanced learning experience that takes things to the next level. 

This is only one of many opportunities that students have in HIPs-designated courses! Different instructors have crafted all sorts of projects and learning experiences tailored to their courses and their chosen HIPs. The Academic Resource Center is working to build a repository of these activities so that we can grow and expand as we add more and more HIPs designated courses each semester.

 

Question: How can students sign up for HIPs-designated courses? 

Answer: Each semester, students register for courses in My Motlow. Courses that are coded for HIPs have the practice title listed as part of the information listed for that course. Not every course is HIPs designated, but we have some that have up to three HIPs opportunities available. 

 

Question: Can students earn HIPs outside of the classroom? 

Answer: Yes! There are two practices that do not show up in MyMotlow during registration because they are student specific. These are Peer Mentor and Student Employment. Motlow has an excellent group of student workers in areas like our Library and Writing Center. Students who serve as peer mentors work with their colleagues throughout the college experience, starting with our campus visits and orientations. 

 

Question: Who should faculty, students, administrators and staff contact for more information?  

Answer: Students who are interested in registering for HIPs designated courses should consult with their faculty advisors or completion coaches. HIPs designations are visible in the course schedule in My Motlow. Faculty who are interested in having their courses designated for HIPs should contact Ramona Shelton at rshelton@mscc.edu and should attend ARC workshops throughout the semester to help facilitate the process.