"I really want to set an example for my sons," Lockhart said. "I want them to realize that college is not as hard as they might think. I hope that seeing me attend college as an adult will encourage them to attend."
Like many non-traditional students, Lockhart has to juggle her family, her career, and her education, which can be quite challenging. But she seems to prioritize and organize her life with relative ease. Lockhart is a very determined and driven individual who refuses to give up.
A native of East Orange, N.J., Lockhart now lives in Tifton with her three sons, ages 16, 8, and 5. She works full-time as a police records specialist for the Tifton Police Department--where she works 12-hour shifts--in addition to attending classes.
Lockhart said she decided to seek a college education because she knew she needed a degree.
"I hated high school so I never really planned to go to college," Lockhart said. "I went to business school for a while, but I was not satisfied. I looked into the programs at ABAC and decided to enroll as a criminal justice major. I wish I had gone to college sooner; it is so much better than high school."
Lockhart said she loves ABAC and has never had a problem.
"Everyone is so supportive," Lockhart said. "The professors seem to understand that many students have other obligations, such as work and family responsibilities, and they are willing to help in any way they can. It is not uncommon for professors to encourage the class to e-mail them any time or even call them at home. Two professors I really admire are Ms. Bertha Daniel and Ms. Melanie Robertson. They were both very supportive, and they encouraged me not to give up."
Bertha Daniel, Director of College Services at ABAC, said that during the time she has known Sharon, she has found her to be somewhat of a superwoman.
"I couldn't believe that she was working twelve-hour shifts, attending college, and raising three boys," Daniel said. "My heart went out to her, and I was willing to assist her in this endeavor. My office was always open to Sharon and all of my students if they were willing to take advantage of the assistance. She took advantage, and in the process, I got to know her better.
"She is very soft spoken, but has the determination and the ability to achieve what she sets her mind to. Sometimes we just need someone to help us see that. I hope that I have been the conduit for her to realize that she is capable of obtaining and fulfilling her dreams. After all, if you believe it, you can achieve it ."
Melanie Robertson, Assistant Professor of Mathematics at ABAC, said Lockhart is a wonderful example of a non-traditional student.
"I really respect and admire Sharon because she is attending ABAC not just to better her own life, but to show her children the importance of an education," Robertson said. "It has been hard, and she has come to class tired, but she has such a determination to succeed. I know she will reach her goals, and I am proud to be a part of this time in her life."
Lockhart, who is relocating to Decatur this fall, plans to finish her criminal justice degree and then study business administration.
For additional information on enrolling at ABAC, contact the Admissions Office at 1-800-733-3653. Fall semester classes begin Aug. 15.
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