Threhaa Knutson ’22

“The faculty and staff at Sheridan College believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself…..”

As an older, non-traditional student, and a mother of four children, Threhaa Knutson was very intimidated when she first entered the Nursing program at Sheridan College. “I wasn’t sure I could go back to school, and here I was, surrounded by all these young students.”

While working as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Greenhouse Living, Threhaa decided she wanted to take the next step for herself and her family, and earn her Nursing degree.

“I love the small class sizes. You really get to know your peers and your instructors. The instructors are happy to answer all your questions and make sure you learn the material completely so you can retain it.”

Threhaa is amazed at the resources that are available to her. “I use the library frequently, and have used the math and writing center when I needed a little extra help. Everyone has been really supportive, wanting me to succeed!”

As a non-traditional student, Threhaa has also been able to use the TRIO center. “Rafael, my mentor at the TRIO center, has been there every step of the way. There have been many times when I have cried on his shoulder. He has helped me get over most of my hurdles and has pushed me to keep going, even when I doubted that I could succeed. The TRIO center’s philosophy is to take care of the family as a whole, which for me is so important.”

Threhaa has been the recipient of several scholarships, which have been crucial to her ability to return to school. Even though she is still working full time while going to school, the cost of tuition, fees, books and materials, in addition to the costs of raising her family would have been too much.

“I am so thankful to the donors of the scholarships that I have received. Between the financial help, the emotional help and all of the academic help I have received, I have thrived at Sheridan College. It feels like everyone is rooting for you to succeed, and it feels great!”

Threhaa has loved her clinical rotations so far. After graduation in May, her dream job would be to work at Sheridan Memorial Hospital in the Labor and Delivery department.

We are so proud of Threhaa for working so hard and overcoming so many obstacles to make her dreams come true for her and her family!

Click Here for more information about the Sheridan College TRIO Center.