“It Is My Turn”: Amanda Lemon’s Path to Graduation

For Amanda Lemon, walking across the stage at Coastal Alabama Community College is more than earning a degree. It is a moment decades in the making.

When she graduated high school in 1995, college did not feel possible. Reading at a lower grade level and finishing near the bottom of her class, Amanda never imagined she would one day call herself a college graduate.

Years later, that began to change.

Inspired by her family, her son, daughter, and husband who each chose to pursue their education at Coastal, Amanda felt a calling she could no longer ignore.

“It is my turn,” she told herself.

Starting part time, Amanda admits she was scared. There were moments of doubt and moments where she questioned if she had taken on too much. But she kept going. With the support of her family and a strong foundation of faith, she refused to give up.

That perseverance led to something remarkable.

Amanda will graduate with her Associate of Science in General Studies, holding a 3.942 GPA. Along the way, she earned a place on the President’s List and was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two year colleges. Amanda previously walked the stage after completing a short-term certificate in Child Development and is now preparing to earn her associate degree. She is also continuing her education through the Elementary Education pathway with the University of West Alabama, with plans to complete it this fall.

More than the academic achievements, Amanda says this journey has transformed how she sees herself.

“This experience has shaped me into someone who no longer doubts herself, someone who is stronger, more confident, and willing to keep going even when things feel hard,” she shared.

Her journey is also deeply rooted in family. Amanda is part of what many proudly call a “Coastal family.” Her husband and children have each pursued their education at Coastal, creating a shared experience that has inspired and supported her every step of the way.

Graduating alongside her family makes the moment even more meaningful.

“This moment is not just mine. It belongs to all of us.”

Amanda’s story is a powerful reminder that the past does not define what is possible and that it is never too late to begin again.