Early College, Big Dreams
Apr 1, 2026Gwen Goad Shoots for Vassar (and Nails It)
For Gwendolyn Goad, the journey to Rockingham Community College began long before she ever stepped onto campus. A Pelham resident who was born in Danville, Virginia, Goad entered RCC through the Rockingham Early College High School program after being accepted in middle school. Now a senior preparing to graduate in May 2026 with her Associate in Arts degree, she says the experience has shaped both her future and her sense of self.
“I’ve been doing the Early College at RCC since freshman year,” Goad said. “My goal was to get ahead – finish my associate degree so I’d only need two more years for my bachelor’s.”
What she didn’t expect was just how deeply the college would influence her academic direction. Goad has long been fascinated by psychology – an interest rooted in her family’s history of mental illness and her curiosity about the human mind.
“I’ve always been interested in how different things affect the brain,” she said. “It’s not always just environmental factors. Sometimes it’s just the way you’re born, and while we can’t change that, we can help people be the best version of themselves.”
She’s already taken three psychology courses and is preparing for the next chapter: attending Vassar College in New York, where she plans to major in psychology and neuroscience.
Goad describes her college experience as overwhelmingly positive.
“I love RCC,” she said. “Everyone is always so nice and helpful, and the professors genuinely want you to succeed. They never hold you back.”
That support proved essential during challenging moments.
“There were definitely times I thought, ‘I don’t know if I can do this,’” she recalled. “But I reminded myself I’ve done hard things before. And I always have people supporting me – my family, my friends, and my teachers.”
Instructors often provided guidance, feedback, or flexibility when she needed it most. “They’ve always been very supportive and accommodating,” she said, “part of that whole support system.”
Goad also makes academic use of RCC’s library resources, especially online databases like ProQuest. “I utilize that a lot for assignments,” she said.
While psychology is her passion, Goad has found joy in RCC’s variety of classes. One unexpected favorite has been ceramics.
“I’ve always wanted to try pottery,” she said. “[I’m able] to do that without going off campus. Last semester especially, having that mix of psychology and ceramics made me feel like yes, I’m in the right place.”
Those creative breaks help her find balance. “I’m not super stressed all the time,” she said. “I can have fun and relaxation in my day.”
Her favorite spots on campus reflect that sense of calm. She loves the outdoor tables between the Humanities and Science buildings – specifically lying on top of them rather than sitting – and the amphitheater when the weather is warm.
To her younger self in her first semester of college, Goad would say: “See it through. Don’t give up. Stay focused on your studies. If you want something, go for it.”
That message extends to anyone considering RCC.
“Definitely enroll,” she said without hesitation. “There’s so much freedom and so many options. If you’re unsure about your future, this is the perfect place to explore before committing to a path.”
As she prepares to leave RCC for Vassar, Goad carries with her not only credits and experience, but confidence.
And her final piece of advice to others is simple but heartfelt:
“Always be yourself. Never let other people tell you who to be.”
