Carolette McKenzie and her son Deondre graduated together from Bronx Community College (BCC) in May, 2023. The mother and son emigrated to the States from Jamaica and came here to find better opportunities. The duo enrolled in the Accelerated Study in Associated Program (ASAP), which provides scholarships, Metro cards and textbooks for students. Commuting to campus every day together, Carolette pursued a nursing degree and Deondre enrolled in the Criminal Justice program. 

“I chose BCC because it was convenient, affordable and has a beautiful campus. ASAP also offered me the opportunity to graduate on time and debt-free. The professors were amazing and always there for me. It was a great experience,” Carolette said. 

Now, two years later, both Carolette and Deondre are fulfilling their dreams. Carolette progressed from a home health aide, to a nursing attendant and now works as an ICU nurse. Deondre went on to study at John Jay and is currently working in the criminal justice sector as an NYPD officer in transit in Manhattan.

While at BCC, the mother-son team shared the same academic advisor Laisa Quezada, who helps ASAP students. She guided them through their academic journey, ensuring that they would take the right classes and graduate early.

“BCC taught me resilience and that I could do anything I put my mind to,” Carolette said. “The professors encouraged us and showed us that no matter how difficult a situation is, you can find people who will help you.” 

Their advisor Laisa said: “Carolette and Deondre McKenzie embody the extraordinary potential within every individual. Their experience speaks volumes of their achievements and shared milestones of graduating from BCC as a mother-son duo.  

At BCC, Carolette received her Associate Degree in Nursing and Deondre received an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice. Both held full-time jobs while going to school. Their journey was not without numerous challenges and financial hardships, but they persevered. 

Their advice to other BCC students is never to lose sight of your goal, stay motivated, and reach out to professors and staff for help in navigating class and work schedules.