Free Community College at Kingsborough

Abigail Morales  
MAJOR: Education Studies

Abigail Morales didn’t always see college as part of her path. Now 31 and a mother of three, she's turning a long-held dream into reality, thanks to CUNY Reconnect, a new “free college” initiative for New Yorkers aged 25 to 55.

The Gravesend resident attended Guttman Community College for one semester a decade ago but hadn’t decided on a career path. When she found out she was pregnant, she decided to leave school and focus on work. “At the time I was working at a retail store, but I didn't picture doing that for the rest of my life,” she said. She attended a trade school for early childhood education, which led her to a job at Sunny Skies Preschool. Later, she spent five years at the Guild for Exceptional Children, gaining experience with children who have special needs.

A career deadline first brought her to Kingsborough. “I was two credits shy of earning the level two teacher assistant certificate I needed to get hired as a full-time paraprofessional,” shared Abigail. “I needed to obtain these credits by August 30 because my level one certification was about to expire.” She enrolled in a summer course with education studies professor Barbara Frawley. “Her class was amazing and very inspiring. I was so happy to be there and learn more about education. It reminded me of why I chose this career path,” she said.

Today, she is a full-time paraprofessional in the city’s public schools and is majoring in education studies, with a focus on grades 1-6, at Kingsborough Community College.

The decision to continue at Kingsborough came easily. The college’s proximity to home and the flexibility of online classes were key factors. “One of my coworkers mentioned I could take certain courses remotely, which was great for me since I have three young children and work,” Abigail said. She found the college’s support very clear and helpful. “The administration kept me informed of the steps I needed to take through email and phone. If I was calling the wrong number, they would connect me to the right people.”

A self-described go-getter, Abigail is the first in her family to attend college. Being able to attend for free was a major reason she decided to enroll. “Adding college into my life was never a thought because I knew I couldn't afford it,” she noted. “Just the thought of getting an education without any financial burden took a load off my shoulders and made me so happy. Being afforded this opportunity was a blessing that I couldn’t let pass.”

Abigail is also grateful for the chance to demonstrate for her children that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. “I always aim to succeed and do better,” she said. “I am very happy that I can set an example for my kids and show them that age doesn't matter. Nothing stops you when you set your mind to it.”

Balancing work, parenting, and classes is no small feat, but asynchronous online courses, where students complete coursework on their own schedule, help. “As a full-time working mom of three young children, I am very busy. This type of class gives me the flexibility to get my assignments done when I can, as well as keep an eye on the due dates,” she said.

After graduation, Abigail plans to continue working as a paraprofessional at the Department of Education and is contemplating continuing her education. She values what she’s learning at Kingsborough and wants to be the best for her students. "Having gone to college, I will be more knowledgeable in my field and know how to work with kids of all ages," she said.

Outside of work and school, she enjoys spending time with her children, especially taking them to the park and participating in community activities.

She hopes others will take advantage of the free college opportunity, as she has, even if they have concerns about returning to college after a break. “Feeling nervous is a normal thing. I felt nervous as well,” she admitted. “But one thing I always heard growing up was a saying, ‘You will never get far in life if you don't take a leap of faith and give it your all.’ Even if I am scared and worried and don't know what I am walking into, I still go for it.”