December 11, 2025
Scholarships and resources propelled JCCC student Michelle Adams to a one-of-a-kind dual degree combination.
With decades of experience in construction, Michelle Adams was ready to continue her education and pursue a leadership role. She began searching for her ideal school.
In the end, JCCC won out. The location was convenient, and the academic rigor would set her apart in her chosen field.
“What ultimately confirmed my decision was the strength of JCCC’s Construction Management program, which is known for its quality and industry relevance,” she said. “It was the right fit for both my schedule and my long-term goals.”
Michelle arrived at JCCC with about two dozen college credits. Originally, she planned to earn her Associate of Applied Science in Construction Management. However, she quickly realized she could make the most of her time as a Cavalier by earning a second degree.
For Michelle, the choice was obvious. She added an Associate of Fine Arts to her academic plan.
“I have always been artistic, and I also have a background in construction,” she said. “To me, the two fields are not as different as they might seem; both are about creating something with a clear vision of the finished result.”
This spring, Michelle will walk in the graduation ceremony for both of her degrees.
“I’ll have earned one degree built from structure and precision, and the other from creativity and design,” she said.
JCCC provides scholarships and support
"[JCCC] was the right fit for both my schedule and my long-term goals. JCCC has provided a consistently supportive and encouraging environment. Whenever I faced a challenge, there was always someone willing to help me find a solution."
— Michelle Adams
With her educational goals set in motion, Michelle relied on the resources JCCC provides to help Cavaliers thrive.
“JCCC has provided a consistently supportive and encouraging environment,” she said. “Whenever I faced a challenge, there was always someone willing to help me find a solution.”
In addition to encouragement from faculty and staff, Michelle was awarded scholarships to help her pay for college. During her time at JCCC, Michelle has received a scholarship from JE Dunn Construction, the Mick McWilliams Scholarship, and an Honors Program Scholarship.
“JCCC has not only given me the resources I needed to succeed, but has also challenged me to push myself,” she said. “I have always thrived on that kind of motivation.”
Michelle also found her community on campus, getting involved in the Construction Management Program Student Chapter and joining the JCCC Honors Program.
“If you can, join the Honors Program,” she said. “Being part of the Honors community is like having your own personal team of academic mentors who truly want to see you thrive.”
JCCC prepares you for your next steps
With graduation on the horizon, Michelle’s future plans are set in motion.
She plans to continue her education by pursuing both a bachelor’s in construction management and in fine arts. She will also seek out roles where she can leverage her management skills and creative talents.
Her advice to future Cavaliers? Go beyond your comfort zone.
“Be open to discovery,” said Michelle. “Take classes in areas you are not familiar with and give yourself every opportunity to learn something new. JCCC offers so many resources to help you succeed: use them.”
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