Etrina Tyler:  

. I liked to read, and was a pretty good at writing. While grade school was enjoyable and productive for me, I felt like I blossomed in high school. I met friends that I still have today, and had many experiencesand was active in many groups that helped me grow into the woman that I am today. College I actually had two attempts at college... my first attempt was immediately after high school when I attended Western Illinois University for about a year. I enjoyed college (i.e,: did a lot of partying, drinking, and other stuff) but had financial difficulties that sent me back home. If I had it to do over again, I would have worked harder to go back to WIU and face my fears and finish college while I was still very young. My second attempt at college was much more successful. I decided to finish school and get my degree in 1997 at age 27. I started out at Olive-Harvey College, and after receiving an Associate's Degree there, I transferred to Chicago State University where I received a Bachelor's Degree in Management Information Systems in August 2004. I felt more in control of my learning experience since I had long outgrew my young adult insecurities. I learned so much about myself, the people I surround myself with, and the world in general. I am glad that I did finally finish college. It means so much more to me now that I understand the value of education for a person and society.