Khalia Singleton originally came to Blackhawk right out of high school, but a house fire a few years into her educational journey forced her to take some time off. Now, as the mother of five children, she decided it was time to get back on board and continue her journey in the Early Childhood Development program.

Khalia, who was born in Chicago but raised and currently living in Beloit, chose Blackhawk because she was told by many former students that the college had one of the best Early Childhood Development programs and professors.

“I have always had a passion for working with children as well as learning from them,” she said. “Young people are our future and knowing that I can help be a part of their success to teach them and guide them makes me feel great as a person.”

The diversity that Blackhawk has is something that Khalia loves. She also enjoys being able to connect and build a relationship with her professor, which she feels makes the journey easier by not being afraid to reach out for help when it’s needed.

“I’ve learned giving up doesn’t make for greater success, but pushing through those challenges and overcoming them while still handling business will make your success trip even more worth it,” she said.

Being a mother to five children comes with its share of challenges, but Khalia has learned not to let that stop her, as her instructor Michelle Weirich notes.

“Khalia reflects many of our students at the college. She is juggling 5 young children, working full-time, and is completing a degree,” she said.  “Khalia's tenacity and hard work will open doors for her family that wouldn't have been available without an education.”

Khalia hopes that anyone considering Blackhawk follows their dreams and takes meaningful action. She says the most important thing is to find the best learning styles that fit your needs and make sure you use what the college offers to your benefit.

“Make connections and relationships with your professor and classmates,” she said. “Being a college student may not be the easiest for most but having those relationships and support can help guide you when tough times arise.”

Planning to graduate next year, Khalia hopes to work within the Beloit School District, with a long-term goal of running her own childcare facility.

World Teachers’ Day is observed Wednesday, Oct. 5. Established in 1994, it aims to focus on "appreciating, assessing and improving the educators of the world" and to provide an opportunity to consider issues related to teachers and teaching.