Meet Current Reconnectors
Cleopatra Best
MAJOR: Surgical Technology
Cleopatra Best always knew she wanted to help others. After nearly two decades working in healthcare as a patient care technician, the Canarsie resident made the decision to return to Kingsborough Community College, where she first started as a student in the late 1990s, to major in surgical technology.
“I’d finished one semester back in 1996–97, then stopped to focus on working and motherhood,” she shared. “I decided to take a leap of faith to continue to advance in my passion for healthcare. It gives me a chance to dive deeply into a profession I love in the healthcare industry, where I can positively influence people’s lives.”
The new CUNY Reconnect program, which helps adults aged 25 to 55 return to college for free, played a major part in her decision to return. “It removed the financial barriers so I am able to focus solely on my studies,” she noted. “My goal now is to get a higher-paying job, advance my skills and knowledge, and just learn as much as I can.”
So far, Cleopatra feels energized about her studies. “I feel incredibly excited about enrolling back at KCC and my future as a surgical tech. I love working in a fast-paced career, being a team player, and also knowing that my strong work ethic could make a tangible, direct impact on patient outcome by ensuring surgical success.”
She’s found the diversity of experiences and backgrounds among her classmates to be unexpectedly rich and rewarding. “What surprised me most was the diversity of social circles. Interacting with people from different cultures has led to deeper personal growth and broadened my understanding of ideas and cultures.”
Going back to Kingsborough felt natural, but, like many adult students juggling school, work, and life, she had some difficulties at first. “Managing the intense workload and tight deadlines was a challenge, but I learned to use a digital planner to break down large assignments into smaller tasks, which helps me stay on track.”
She hopes her example will encourage others, especially those who may feel uncertain about starting college later in life. “Feeling nervous or late is completely normal,” she said. “Just focus on self-care, establish new routines, and build a supportive network by connecting with peers and professors and manage your time effectively.”
Cleopatra’s instinct to help others goes beyond her studies and career. “Some people may be surprised that I will stop and help a stranger, especially if they need medical attention or food. Caring for people is in my DNA.”