"The most startling thing about The College of New Rochelle is its willingness to go the extra mile to help us reach our goals. The program is workable and adaptable; most important of all, it's conducive to an adult lifestyle. I didn't have to put my husband and my boys into storage when I went back to school. My life is even more wonderful and fulfilling because of CNR." Renae Carr School of New Resources Far Rockaways Extension Site Brooklyn Campus The College of New Rochelle

Where are you from, Renae?

I was born and raised in South Jamaica, New York. When I was 10 my parents bought a home in Far Rockaway, and I have lived there every since.


Tell us something about your family?

My parents were both hard-working blue collar folks who instilled strong values and provided a loving home. My husband is the Chief of Nuclear Medicine at Peninsula Hospital in Rockaway and holds his Doctorate's in Theology. He is also the Pastor of our church and is an absolutely wonderful source of support for me. I have three sons, one of whom graduated from college this year. The younger two are on their way toward achieving great things as well.


Why did you decide to go to college?

College was never an "option" in my family. I started college immediately after high school but got sidetracked and left. Now I am finishing what I started 25 years ago. What is interesting is that shortly after I started at the School of New Resources, I was promoted to Director at my job, which has been my greatest professional accomplishment to date. 


Why did you decide then to attend The College of New Rochelle?

I wanted to go to college but had so many family and business obligations I was unable to find the time to travel outside my neighborhood.  So, when CNR’s School of New Resources came into my neighborhood, wild horses couldn’t keep me away from going to college.


What is the most challenging part about being a student today?

A better question for me would be "what is the most exciting part about being a student today?" You have to understand that I love the class work, the homework assignments, the adult interaction, the stimulating discussion. I love all of it! It’s exciting and euphoric to be back in school, back in the process of formal educating and reaching academic goals. Its unbelievably thrilling.


When do you attend classes?

My classes are typically two nights per week.
 

Do you have any favorite teachers?

I have to state unequivocally that my all time favorite is Professor Stephen Stewart. He took the shock out of re-entering college while at the same time encouraging me to go deeper inside myself and to allow myself to enjoy the experience and grow from it. He didn't lecture to the class as if we were empty vessels, but rather he engaged us and included us in the teaching process. Professor Stewart is the epitome of what adult college life should be about.


What has surprised you the most about CNR?

The most startling thing about The College of New Rochelle is their willingness to go the extra mile to help us reach our goals. The program is workable and adaptable; most important of all, it's conducive to an adult lifestyle. I didn't have to put my husband and my boys into storage when I went back to school. My life is even more wonderful and fulfilling because of CNR.


When do you expect to graduate?

2006 looks like my year. However, for me graduation is not what this process is about. I enjoy college and the empowerment I get from learning. I never thought I'd say this, but graduate school might be on my horizon, thanks to CNR.

To find out if  CNR is the right choice for you, please contact:

O F F I C E  O F  C O M M U N I C A T I O N S
29 Castle Place, New Rochelle, NY 10805
info@cnr.edu
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