LIVERMORE FALLS — Dione Skidgell worked hard to prepare herself to go to college after graduating from high school years ago.
But she never expected she’d receive a $5,000 scholarship to help her pay for classes at Central Maine Community College in Auburn.
Prior to deciding to return to college to learn a new trade, she drove trucks for 16 years. When the Livermore woman decided to pursue another career, the first thing she did was enroll in the College Transitions program offered through RSU 73 Spruce Mountain Adult and Community Education.
She completed that program in mid-June, then as part of the requirements, applied for several scholarships. She learned she received $5,000 from the Maine Community Foundation’s James and Marilyn Rockefeller Scholarship Fund.
The grant is given to those who return to college later in life.
Skidgell said she was thrilled to receive the scholarship. It will pay for at least a dozen courses.
She is enrolled in general studies at CMCC, but she plans to major in nuclear medicine technology.
“It’s a high-growth occupation,” Skidgell said. “Some in my family have had nuclear tests.”
College Transitions provides potential college students with assistance in math and English and other knowledge they should know prior to becoming a college student.
“Wherever a student is, we will meet them there,” said Michelle Guillaume, adult education teacher. “We help them brush up on math and English, technology, college culture. We help students set goals and fill out scholarships.”
Skidgell is the legal guardian of her grandniece, Kilee Lewis, 3. One of the major reasons she said she decided to go to college was to set a good example for Kilee.
Skidgell also influenced one of her cousins to look into the College Transitions program and to consider going to college.
The next College Transitions program begins Sept. 29.
The 12-week program, held at the former Livermore Falls High School, meets from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., twice a week. However, Guillaume said some flexibility is possible for those who want to enroll but can’t attend two mornings a week.
The program is offered at no cost.
Adult Education director Eileen Miazga said the program is all about possibilities.
“If someone is curious, come and find out about it,” she said.
For more information, call 897-6384.
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- Dione Skidgell, who recently completed the College Transitions program at RSU 73’s Spruce Mountain Adult and Community Education, received a $5,000 scholarship for Central Maine Community College in Auburn. She is shown with her grandniece, Kilee Lewis.
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