Emma Raub – GHC Alum, Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management
Finding a Calling
Emma Raub graduated from Grays Harbor College in 2022 after completing GHC’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management. In the interview below, Emma looks back on her time at GHC and reflects on how her education has shaped her future.
What inspired you to enroll at GHC?
To give a brief background, I did not graduate high school. I earned my GED in 2012 and worked two jobs to get by. I was burnt out and remember thinking I can’t spend my entire life this way. I felt like I wanted to make a change when I enrolled at GHC. It was really the start of a big shift in my life. In my experience, my instructors were more like mentors and encouraged me to take the next step in obtaining a bachelor’s degree. Any self-doubt I had was erased by positive feedback on papers and projects from my instructors.
What are some things you enjoyed learning or being a part of at GHC?
One of the first courses I took was Psychology in my Associates Degree. I had no idea that I would enjoy this class so much. It made me realize that there are so many things that shape who we are. Another course that I really enjoyed was Biology. Learning the basic building blocks of life and adaptations was fascinating to me. As an Accounting major, I didn’t get many opportunities to learn about the sciences until I needed the prerequisites for my bachelor’s degree.
In the bachelor’s program I really enjoyed the fact that we could apply our lesson to our own interests. Some of my favorite classes were Ethics, Change Management and Grant Writing. This program taught us many different skills from creating videos, graphics, communication, leadership, teamwork and so much more. I loved the variety of courses – in both my associate and bachelor’s degree programs. The courses that I had no prior knowledge in happen to be some of my favorite topics now. The instructors at GHC always felt supportive and created such an open space to share thoughts and ideas.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at GHC?
A favorite memory is from a project that I worked on during my second year. I was creating deliverables and working on a research project for the entire quarter on Salmon Recovery in Washington State. This project was linked to my goal of becoming a grant writer and learning how to create deliverables and contracts with supporting data. The Coast Salmon Partnership has an office in Aberdeen. I was able to meet with the Executive Director, Mara Zimmerman, and interview her about this organization and all the work they have done. This was so important to me because I felt like I created my first network in the real world, even though it was a school project.
What are your career goals?
My career goal is to become a grant writer and help organizations get the funding they need to aid in conservation and community work. I am also planning on obtaining a master’s degree in organizational leadership.
How has GHC helped you reach your goals?
GHC was the first step in helping me reach my goals. Pursuing my bachelor’s degree is where I found out about grant writing, and felt like I found my calling. I have years of administrative and accounting experience, but I also have an immense appreciation for the natural resources and recreation in our area. When I learned what a grant writer was, I instantly knew I could blend my skills with a personal interest in a career one day.
What advice to you have for future students?
It’s a big commitment to go to college, but it is an investment in yourself. The growth you will experience as an individual is hard to achieve without education. Getting an education widens your lens and gives you more depth and compassion when working with others. It can be scary, and you might not know where to start. Luckily, we have this amazing college full of support to help you along the way! Don’t be afraid to ask questions and walk around the campus to get familiar with the resources that can be available to you.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” - Nelson Mandela