Student spotlight: Cali Tolliver

We shine the spotlight on an exceptional student who has navigated challenges, embraced opportunities, and is on the path to fulfilling her dreams! Let’s hear from Cali:

How did you choose Olympic College? How did you choose Eastern Washington University?

I chose Olympic college because I knew it was going to be a steppingstone to a university. My high school counselor suggested Olympic college to help increase my GPA, because it was not high enough to get me into college. I chose Eastern Washington University because I visited the campus in high school, and I really enjoyed the vibe of the campus, and the classes in the English department looked interesting. There was a plus that it was not too far from home!

What is your major (or intended major)?

My major is going to be English Literature, not only because I enjoy reading and analyzing books, but it will also allow me to expand the understand of literature spanning from the beginning of time. English literature will also be useful for my educational and life goals.

What is your dream job?

I used to never be able to answer this question, because there were so many things, I knew I did not want to do. When I got to Olympic College, I was able to get a job as a librarian assistant. Working at the library made me realize how much I enjoyed being around the books and helping others when it came to finding the books they wanted. Being a librarian is my dream job and I think a degree in English literature will only help me when it comes to knowing more about books. Of course, my degree will also help me when I get my master’s degree in library science afterwards.

Any clubs, activities or interests you are a part of outside of class?

I have a few hobbies here and there. I really enjoy writing poetry, reading, memorizing Shakespeare passages, as well as listening to music and watching tv.

What has been the most surprising thing for you so far about college?

There are surprisingly a lot of resources when it comes to getting help with classes. I wouldn’t have been able to survive school this long without tutoring or help from my college advisors.

What is a challenge you have encountered in college and how did you navigate it? (Or how are you navigating it?)

Taking any sort of math classes has been a huge challenge for me, it took me 3 years just to take my math class. I was able to get help when it came to studying for the Accuplacer and once I passed, I went to the tutoring center a few times a week and it helped so much. Studying is something I have always had trouble with. It was always hard for me because I am a visual learner, and some classes do not teach that way. Getting through those math classes was the most challenging.

What student supports / resources have you utilized that have been most helpful to you?

The Writing Center and Math tutoring center. Those have been the most helpful. I also went to talk to my teachers about assignments when they had free time.

What is one piece of advice you would like to share with fellow students?

My advice is keep going and do not give up even when it’s hard. I failed the same class three times and had to take a two-year break so I could retake Accuplacer to catch up. There are people who can help you, and you should not give up.