Head Start Grad Returns as Nursing Student

posted 4/13/18 -- Once in a while, Terri Arriaga sees the results of her 21 years teaching Head Start at LCCAA.

Working side-by-side with her former student during the Wild About Nutrition event at Hopkins-Locke was one of those occasions.

Tatyana Willis is finishing the medical assistant program at Ohio Business College this May and came with the College to help with activities ranging from trying new foods to learning how to floss.

“I was so happy to see her,” Arriaga said, grinning from ear to ear. “We always had a good relationship and the kids I’ve worked with have become like family to me.”

Tatyana, who hopes to become a nurse someday, attributes some of her success – and her desire to serve -- to Head Start and Arriaga.

“I have always been interested in helping,” she said. “I like taking care of people. Ms. Arriaga was just my favorite and I think people should bring their kids here because it's just a really good place.”

Jenifer Bowen, Program Director of Medical Assisting at Ohio Business College, reaffirmed Tatyana's interest in helping her community “it's about giving back, not just about what you are going to school for, it's about community.”

The lifelong friendship between teacher and student is an outgrowth of LCCAA's mission to serve and empower and proof that Head Start Works.

“Sometimes I see Tatyana at a grocery store or around town and I get so happy,” Arriaga said.