Parrett shares her journey of perseverance
Members of the First-Gen Committee are Valerie Bishop, Janet Parrett, Kristi Williamson,
and Nedra Bradley.
Failure doesn’t always yield bad results; sometimes, it’s just what’s needed.
For Meridian Community College staffer Janet Parrett, a failing grade in medical records history class turned her life around and has impacted the countless lives of others. “I’m thankful that I failed because it really taught me that I’m okay. And it made me follow the path that was always in my heart.”
Parrett shared her story with audience members at MCC’s First-Generation celebration, where she spoke about resilience, following one’s calling, and the value of not giving up. Parrett, who retired from a 23-year teaching career before coming to MCC to serve as an assistant to the registrar, continues to see students she taught – many who walk the halls on MCC’s campus.
“So, the teacher who almost wasn’t had the opportunity to teach hundreds of students,” she said.
Parrett recalled that after high school, she was ready to work—she’d had enough of studying. But her mom gently encouraged her: “Honey, I would really like to see you get a college background. Because you don’t know what the future holds, and you want to be able to support yourself.”
Although she initially aimed for a two-year medical record technology degree, failing that class re-routed Parrett’s life. “I used the failing to truly listen to that tiny voice in my heart that said you are to be a teacher.”
She enrolled in MCC and was filled with a new-found determination and dedication. Parrett remembered instructors who helped her overcome obstacles. The efforts paid off; she graduated from Mississippi State University-Meridian on Mother’s Day with her mom proudly watching.
As she closed her talk, Parrett urged the audience to pursue their dreams. “I hope you find your purpose, your calling,” she said.
Parrett added, “If you fall down, dust yourself off, get back up, and find your wings.”
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu.
Tri Alpha chapter formed at MCC
During a First-Gen program, Meridian Community College saluted its first group of students who are members of Tri Alpha, a national honor society for first-generation college students.
Known as Alpha Alpha Alpha, Tri Alpha recognized students who are the first in their families to attend and graduate from college. MCC honorees include Tafadzwa Chikomba, Amber Gates, Destiny Chisolm,and Jordan Stevenson.
"Tri Alpha celebrates the hard work and commitment of first-generation students and focuses on three values: academic excellence, leadership, and service," said Nedra Bradley, an advisor to the group and a member of the First-Generation committee on campus.
Visit meridiancc.edu for more information.