From Uncertainty to Empowerment: A Story of Courage and Growth
- Nov 7
- 3 min read
By LaTrenda Ross
I had been working at a luxury retail warehouse for almost five years, managing everything from inventory to team coordination. I was proud of my role—I was even nicknamed the “Captain of the Ship” because I ran that warehouse like it was my own. I had never been a manager before, but my dedication earned me the trust and respect of my supervisors and colleagues.
Then one day, everything changed. My supervisor called me into the office with tears in her eyes and told me the store was closing. I was being laid off.
I remember feeling crushed. “Not again,” I thought. I was tired of being laid off and uncertain about my future. Though I was given severance pay and compensation for my unused leave, I left feeling lost and empty.
The next morning, I woke up in a daze, still processing what had happened. I got dressed like I was going to work out of habit, but instead, I took the bus downtown and just started walking—without really knowing where I was headed. I felt like I was having an out-of-body experience.
I wandered into a building filled with young students moving quickly, full of energy. I followed them onto an elevator, and when the doors opened, I found myself inside a college campus. I stood frozen, unsure of what to do or where to go. That’s when a kind woman approached me and asked, “How can I help you?”
I broke down and admitted, “I don’t know.”
She smiled gently and said, “You’re going to college. Don’t worry.”
I told her I didn’t have the money or resources to go back to school. She looked me in the eye and reassured me, “Everything is going to be alright.”
That moment changed everything.
I was a mother of two, and college felt like an impossible dream. But I decided to take that bold step and enroll at Hudson County Community College. I was older than most of my classmates and unsure of what to expect, but I was determined to succeed.
I dove into my studies, embracing every challenge. Some days were hard—balancing schoolwork with motherhood and managing my fears. But I reminded myself: playtime was over. This was for me and my children.
I also want to thank my daughters, who were incredibly supportive throughout my time in school. They rarely gave me any problems, and I was fortunate to have family members who provided care for them. There were times I attended classes full time while working part-time, whether during the day or night. It was exhausting, but it helped me keep a roof over our heads and food on the table.
To make the most of my college experience, I involved myself in extracurricular activities that helped me grow beyond the classroom. I ran for Evening Student Representative and was elected. Soon after, I earned the privilege to serve as the Student Representative to the Board of Trustees. This leadership role gave me a voice in important decisions affecting the student body, and I loved being part of a community that valued my perspective.
Because of my academic achievements and involvement, I was awarded a scholarship that helped me continue my studies without the heavy burden of financial stress. I also worked as a work-study student, which not only supported me financially but allowed me to build valuable professional skills.
My relationship with Hudson County Community College didn’t end when I graduated. I came back to help start the Alumni Association and eventually became the Alumni President—a role I currently hold with pride. Being able to give back to the institution that transformed my life is one of the most fulfilling parts of my journey.
I earned my Associate’s Degree in Human Services and went on to complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. Going back to school didn’t just change my career path—it transformed my mindset and gave me purpose.
I didn’t always know what a “career” truly meant until I chose education. That decision opened doors I never imagined. Yes, it involved risks: financial uncertainty, balancing responsibilities, and stepping into the unknown. But it also brought hope, growth, and a future I could be proud of.
Looking back, I know that woman who told me, “You’re going to college,” was my angel. Without her guidance and encouragement, I don’t know where I’d be today.
This experience taught me that sometimes the most difficult moments are the catalysts for our greatest growth. Being laid off felt like an ending, but it was actually the beginning of my journey toward resilience, empowerment, and purpose.
If you’re facing uncertainty, remember: bold decisions reshape our trajectory. Taking that first step, even when it feels scary, can lead to incredible transformation.
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