Meet Amanda: Changing Her Life for Her Children

Date published: June 3, 2025

 Jonestown, PA

“I didn’t have any worries because HACC sent me all the information I needed to make an informed choice.”

For Amanda, coming to HACC is all about pursuing more opportunities for herself and for her children.

Her journey to HACC was not easy, as she struggles with genetic issues with hypermobility, suffered from the side effects of a tumor and was homeless for year. Additionally, she said, “I struggle with anxiety and depression all while being a mom to two autistic kids.”

However, Amanda feels these experiences have also given her strength. “I feel like the more you go through, the more understanding you become.”

Now a student in the Respiratory Therapy program, Amanda did not have to overcome any nervous feelings prior to her first day at HACC. “I didn’t have any worries because HACC sent me all the information I needed to make an informed choice,” she said. 

She chose HACC because it came highly recommended to her at work. “I was told by the staff at the hospital I worked for how great the medical students were that come from HACC. I want to be the best at what I do, but don’t want to pay the high costs of [a school like] Penn State.”

The biggest reason why she chose HACC? “My kids deserve a better life than I can give them right now.”

Amanda recommends that students take advantage of all the student benefits, “study buddy” groups and the online courses that the College offers. After she graduates, Amanda said, “I hope to spend my life helping other people, and being one of the first people in my family to own a home.”

Explore your career options at HACC. Please contact an admissions counselor to visit a campus today!