July 3, 2025
Krystin Woodard’s May 29 graduation from Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) still seems surreal to her. The 37-year-old Springfield native left high school at 16 and later earned her GED. Over the years, she started college multiple times but had to pause her education each time due to financial challenges. After hearing about MassReconnect on the local news and social media, Krystin decided now was her time – and she was right.
When Krystin earned her associate degree in liberal arts with honors from STCC alongside her sister, Jada McLeod, they together broke a barrier by becoming the first in their family to graduate from college. Both sisters benefitted from Massachusetts’ free community college programs, with Jada, who is under 25, qualifying for MassEducate.
“It was amazing,” said Krystin of her graduation ceremony, with bouquets of flowers covering the table behind her in a virtual meeting. “I want to do it all again.”
And she will do it all again, because Krystin isn’t stopping at her associate degree. In the fall, she’ll begin working on her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the College of Our Lady of the Elms, and she plans to pursue a master’s degree after that.
“I want to get the highest level of education possible,” she said.
Krystin will attend Elms College on a full scholarship. While attending STCC, she worked full time to pay for living expenses. These expenses had put college out of Krystin’s financial reach for so long. Free community college, along with state financial support that Krystin received to pay for her books, made a world of difference.
Even with tuition, fees, and books covered, there were still obstacles for Krystin to overcome.
“It was really hard,” she said. “I was working two jobs and volunteering while trying to keep up with assignments. I felt like giving up many times, but I kept pushing through.”
Many mentors played a vital role in Krystin’s journey. Her world religion instructor, Professor Linda Meccouri, and her microbiology professor, Professor Joseph Maciaszek, made sure she never fell through the cracks. Professor Meccouri even shared her own inspiring story of earning a GED and later a PhD. Krystin’s advisor, Ashley Pease, was always just a call, email, or office visit away.
Others guided Krystin and believed in her, like Scott Laudani, general manager of WTCC radio, where she volunteered; her computer basics instructor, Professor Renee Tetrault; and STCC President John B. Cook.
Now, Krystin hopes to be a mentor for others, and to show them that it’s never too late.
“Don’t give up,” she said. “Even if it takes you a few tries. Keep going.”
Krystin worked at the May Institute in West Springfield, Massachusetts for much of her college career, and she said they were a source of support as she pursued her studies. Krystin now works at Baystate Health as a patient care technician, a role that aligns well with her career aspirations.
Drawing on her 16 years working in health care, Krystin is passionate about her future as a nurse.
“I love helping people,” she said. “I want to keep making a difference.”
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