When Ambrion first walked into a daycare center as an employee, she had no idea that a simple flyer would change the course of her life.
She worked both in the classroom and in the office, gradually catching the attention of the center’s director. The director saw potential and handed her a brochure from Harcum College, suggesting she consider training for an assistant director position. That suggestion planted a seed.
“I was afraid to go,” Ambrion admitted. “But I developed the courage to move forward. I got used to it.”
Attending Harcum opened Ambrion’s eyes. “It confirmed what I wanted to do—make a difference in the lives of children.” She not only deepened her knowledge but also became more open-minded, exploring different ways to support children’s growth and development.
At Harcum, instructors made the difference. “They were willing to go above and beyond. They wanted you to succeed and made sure you understood the concepts,” she said. Lessons from leadership classes weren’t just academic—they changed how she communicated, listened, and exercised patience, both at work and in her personal life.
Ambrion didn’t stop there. She continued her education at Chestnut Hill College, pursuing a bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. A master’s degree may be next—possibly in special education or child psychology—as she remains committed to learning all she can to serve children better. “I want to get them as many resources as I can,” she said.
Today, Ambrion is the director of another childcare center and is dreaming even bigger: opening a center of her own.
It hasn’t been easy. She lost family members during one of the hardest years of her life. But through it all, she leaned on the support of her family—her “cheerleaders and proofreaders.” And as a first-generation college student, her accomplishments have shifted the expectations in her family. “My daughter wasn’t going to go to college—now she’s graduated from Cheyney. My nephew knows he’s going beyond high school. Even my brother recognized the significance of what I’ve done.”
Her advice to others? “Take a step back and consider what you can obtain. Education is priceless. Just go for it.”
On the question of cost, Ambrion is direct: “Figure it out. Don’t let price stop you. You’ll obtain so much more—the knowledge you receive is worth it.”
To those who may be hesitating, Ambrion offers this: “When you want to accomplish something, you need to sacrifice. But it’s worth it.”
Her journey began with one flyer—and a decision to say yes. For anyone standing at that same crossroads, Ambrion’s story is proof: college doesn’t just open doors. It changes lives.