The college access and success field is old enough that classes of
students we’ve supported have graduated and are now creating the change
we want to see in the world. As NCAN marks 25 years of progress in the
effort to close equity gaps in higher education, our Alumni Spotlight
series will feature the stories of outstanding alumni who have come
through our member organizations over the years.
At a time such as this, we believe it’s still important to share
the success stories of the students our members serve. We hope you enjoy
the series and this week’s alumni.
Ten years ago, Christopher Caver graduated from Nottingham High School in Syracuse, New York and moved away to attend Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania. His dream: pursue an academic career and participate in Lock Haven’s track and field program.
But as a first-generation student, Chris didn’t understand how to navigate the financial aid system and was forced to withdraw after one semester. He returned to Syracuse, where he worked odd jobs, until a friend suggested that he, “Go see Sam,” – as
in, Samuel Rowser, executive director at On Point for College. From there, Chris got the crucial supports that he needed to achieve his dreams, graduate, and give back to his community.
Read more of Chris’ story below.
Note: The responses below have been lightly copy edited for clarity.
Tell us a story of how a mentor or counselor helped you on your journey to earn your postsecondary degree/credential.
My academic adviser played a key role during my postgraduate education. As a college student, life away from home for the first time can be challenging and even more so for a first-generation student navigating the college experience for the first time.
Seemingly unpretentious tasks such as developing a calendar of responsibilities, deadlines, and study hours proved to be essential advice I received from my academic adviser to help with time management. I also received pivotal guidance regarding
the selection of a major and identifying impactful internships.
As a student, what hurdles did you face while getting your postsecondary degree/credential?
As a student, I primarily faced challenges with time management. While attending school full time, I also worked a part-time job to help with my financial situation. I have always had the personality that works best with a structured plan in place, and
until I began to write my daily plan out I continuously pulled all-nighters to make sure that I didn’t miss any deadlines. Adding a calendar to my routine helped me tremendously throughout my academic career.
Why was it important for you to get your postsecondary degree/credential?
As a first-generation college student, it was important for me to obtain a postsecondary degree to change the trajectory of my family into academia and to inspire those around me to set higher goals and expectations for themselves. I understood higher
education to be the great equalizer that would open doors for me both personally and professionally, which would have otherwise been closed had I not achieved a postsecondary degree. I wanted to ensure that I gave myself and my family every opportunity
to improve our circumstances and environment.
What inspires you to work in your field?
Currently, I am a senior analyst for National Grid, an international utility company, and I work in the Operational Excellence department. My chief responsibilities for the company include the analysis of the efficiency and effectiveness of our processes
to ultimately develop and implement improvement plans. I am inspired by this work because it allows me to gain a better understanding of all aspects of the business while stimulating continuous improvement plans for the company. This work also allows
me to think strategically and creatively to help the company reach its goals.
In light of COVID-19, it’s important for students to hear words of encouragement from those who were in their shoes not long ago. What advice would you give to students right now?
The current times that we are living in as we deal with the impact of the COVID-19 can seem challenging and uncertain. One lesson that I have learned throughout my academic life has been that challenges are as much a part of the journey as triumphs.
Throughout your journey, you will encounter times of uncertainty and challenge, but I have always been inspired by a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., in which he stated, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort
and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
I would encourage students, that no matter the odds that they are facing, to never lose sight of their goals and aspirations, surround yourself with a support system, and seek guidance from a mentor, as this current test will be part of your ultimate
testimony in the future.
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