Jennifer Bartsch-Hilt

Jennifer Bartsch-Hilt put her education on hold to raise her children, and she returned to Delaware Tech almost 18 years later to show her children that anything is possible. "I've always wanted to help others, and earning this degree is going to open doors for me to be able to help others.” Jennifer has been fighting health issues most of her life, and coming back to school was a way for her to obtain skills and the degree needed to find a job she is passionate about and can manage with her disabilities.

When Jennifer enrolled at Delaware Tech, she was fighting homelessness while raising children on her own. This inspired her to pursue an education so she could get back on her feet.

"When I first started [at the College], I was stressed, overwhelmed, and I lacked self-confidence; I was being beaten down by life itself. However, I refused to give up, and continued coming no matter how hard life became. Now I am more confident, less stressed, and less overwhelmed. I have gained a family and many close friends here."

Jennifer has helped several classmates excel in their classes by assisting them with studying and tutoring, and advised students who are struggling to reach out to instructors and fellow classmates. "The help is out there; never be afraid to ask for it!"

After graduating from Delaware Tech, Jennifer plans to pursue a bachelor's degree in social work and find a job in her field. She would like to be a counselor for youth, teenagers, and young adults.