April Dickerson, a sophomore communication and media studies major from Rochester Hills, was recently featured in Encore, an Oakland County newsletter for older adults, for her inspiring educational journey and the community partnerships that helped her continue pursuing her bachelor’s degree.

Dickerson received support from Oakland80, an initiative of Oakland County to help 80% of its adult residents earn a postsecondary degree or industry-recognized certificate, and from Oakland County Michigan Works!, a workforce development system that connects job seekers with employment and training opportunities while helping employers find and develop qualified talent.

Dickerson was able to take the next step toward completing her degree after navigating a number of personal and professional challenges throughout her life.

In 2024, she connected with Alex Chudzik, an Oakland80 navigator, where they reviewed her educational background, career experience and future goals. Together, they discovered that Rochester Christian University was an ideal fit because many of her previous credits and professional experiences could transfer toward her degree program.

Soon after being accepted to RCU, Dickerson encountered another obstacle when her laptop stopped working just before classes began. With assistance from Oakland80, she was able to receive a replacement laptop in time to begin her first semester successfully.

“April has shown incredible determination in continuing her education,” Chudzik shared in the feature story. “She brings thoughtfulness and commitment to every step of the process.”

Dickerson credits her belief in education to her mother, who demonstrated the lifelong value of learning and perseverance.

“So many places and people have helped me get here, and I’m grateful,” Dickerson said. “There are so many resources out here. This works. It happened for me, and it can happen for anyone.”

As she continues her studies at RCU, Dickerson hopes to use her degree to encourage understanding, connection and compassion among others.

“I want to use this degree to bridge the gap between people because we all have a lot more in common than differences,” she said.

Rochester Christian University is proud to support students like April and thankful for partnerships with organizations like Oakland80 that help create pathways to educational success.

To read the entire article about Dickerson, click here and turn to pages 10-11.