Sometimes life's most challenging moments reveal the true character of the people around us. For Herzing University alumna Natacha Laguerre, a devastating house fire just months before graduation became the catalyst for discovering the extraordinary compassion of her academic community.
Fire Threatens Final Stretch
September 2019 should have been a time of anticipation for Natacha. With graduation on the way, she was in the final stretch of her academic journey. Instead, she found herself facing an unimaginable crisis when her house caught fire.
"It was the final stretch, and I was devastated," Natacha recalls. "But the professors at Herzing were incredible. Every single one of them worked with me, understanding the difficult situation I was in."
The timing couldn't have been worse, but the response from her professors proved that Herzing's commitment to student success goes far beyond the classroom.
A Community Rallies Around One Student
Displaced from her home and temporarily staying in a hotel provided by the Red Cross, Natacha faced the daunting task of completing her degree requirements under extraordinary circumstances. Her professors recognized this wasn't just an academic challenge but a deeply personal crisis.
"They allowed me to complete my assignments, even as I was temporarily staying in a hotel," she explains. "The kindness and empathy they showed during that stressful time was truly remarkable."
The faculty's response went beyond simple accommodation. They provided the emotional support and flexibility that enabled her to focus on her studies despite the chaos surrounding her living situation.
Personal Care During Crisis
What distinguished the Herzing response was the personal attention Natacha received during her most vulnerable time. Her professors didn't just adjust deadlines; they provided genuine care and concern for her wellbeing.
"They checked in on me, made sure I was okay, and gave me the time and space I needed to get my work done amidst the chaos," she remembers. "Their actions kept me going when I needed it most."
This level of personal investment from faculty members ensured that Natacha could stay on track for her graduation despite the upheaval in her personal life.
Meeting the Next Challenge
Just as Natacha was recovering from the fire's disruption, the COVID-19 pandemic presented another unexpected obstacle. Once again, the Herzing community demonstrated their unwavering commitment to student success.
The consistency of support through multiple crises reinforced Natacha's confidence in her ability to overcome any challenge with the right backing.
Graduating On Time Against All Odds
Despite facing two major disruptions in quick succession, Natacha achieved her goal of graduating on schedule. This accomplishment represented more than academic achievement; it demonstrated the power of community support during adversity.
"I'm convinced that if not for their unwavering support, I would not have been able to complete my degree on time," she acknowledges.
Transformation Through Education
As an older student returning to school, Natacha initially questioned her ability to succeed in an academic environment. The Herzing experience provided more than just coursework; it fostered personal growth and confidence.
"I initially doubted myself," she admits. "But the courses, interactions, and overall education helped me grow tremendously, both academically and personally."
This transformation equipped her with both the knowledge and confidence needed to advance in her healthcare career.
Smooth Career Transition
Natacha's transition after graduation was seamless, aided by her existing work in the healthcare field. However, her Herzing education provided the catalyst for professional advancement beyond her previous role.
"The transition after graduation was smooth for me, as I was already working in the field. But Herzing gave me the extra push I needed to move into a leadership role," she explains.
The combination of practical skills and newfound confidence opened doors to leadership opportunities that might not have been available before.
Wisdom for Future Students
Drawing from her unique experience of overcoming multiple challenges while completing her degree, Natacha offers practical advice to incoming students about navigating their own educational journeys.
"My advice to incoming Herzing students is to remember your personal goals, stay engaged, and never doubt yourself," she counsels. "The journey may go faster than you expect, but the support of the Herzing community will be there every step of the way."