The University of Toledo

Bari Ludwick

Bari Ludwick, after a divorce, came to the Eberly Center for Women in January, 1996, determined to make a better future for herself and 2 young children. " I was really scared " about returning to school, she said. Bari didn't know if she could cope with the demands of single parenting, working 2 jobs, AND beginning an academic career.

Project Succeed was a positive experience, she said. The program's career assessment tools helped her to figure out the answers to "What to do? What to be?" She has been diligently working on an Associate's Degree in Medical Technology since the Fall of 1996. She takes 2 classes each semester, parents her children, and works 32 hours a week. In the beginning, she questioned herself as her children resented the time and energy she spent in her commitment to her education. Now aged 14 and 10, her children are proud of her. She takes the summer semester off from school, to enjoy her children, and give herself a much-deserved break.

Bari said Project Succeed was a positive influence and a motivator for her. " School is hard work; my reward is my good grades." Others have recognized her academic commitment as well. Earlier this year she was awarded a scholarship from the Theta Chapter Junior Coterie. She was elated to receive further encouragement from a community organization.

"School has become a part of my life" Bari says. "My kids come home and tell me they've gotten an 'A', and I can say, I got one, too."