From Teacher's Aide to Kindergarten Teacher: Alyssia's Success with an Online Bachelor's Program

In a world where the pursuit of higher education often is an uphill battle, Alyssia's journey to obtaining her college degree is a story of perseverance.

Born and raised in the Bay Area, Alyssia Hewitt is a loving granddaughter and full-time educator. Her educational journey began over 10+ years ago, when she earned her associate’s degree at Santa Monica College in the city of Los Angeles. Like many first-generation college students, she encountered numerous obstacles along the way — including personal losses and the pressure of balancing full-time work and studies.

After a candid conversation with her school's dean, she realized her potential of pivoting from her current role as a teacher’s aide to leading her own classroom by earning a degree with Rivet School. 

Starting Rivet School’s Educator Pathway program in 2020, she juggled her full-time job as a teacher’s aide while diligently pursuing her degree. Her success at Rivet School is not only a testament to her academic achievements but also to the unwavering support she received personally and professionally. 

"A lot of schools don’t factor in that people have more identities than just being a student," Alyssia reflects. "At Rivet School, my College Coach didn’t just care about me as a student but also as a whole person."

In two and a half years, she graduated with her Bachelor’s Degree in Communications with a concentration in Business through Southern New Hampshire University. After pursuing her teacher credentials, Alyssia has now realized her dream of becoming a kindergarten teacher in Richmond, giving back to the community that raised her. 

Her journey serves as an inspiration to those on their path to post-secondary education, reminding us that with a delicate balance of perseverance and support, anything is possible.

Inspired by Alyssia’s story? Take the first step towards your own success by filling out our interest form and kickstart your college journey with Rivet School.