Nikita Stanley’s career in Early Childhood Education (ECE) is a testament to the power of taking the next step, coupled with incredible support from her workplace and college program.
Nikita initially began her ECE journey as a volunteer at the daycare center where her daughter attended. The owner quickly recognized her talent, saying, “You should do this, you’re great with kids,” and invited her to join the staff. The center’s owner continued to invest in her growth, encouraging her to pursue the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. With the owner paying half of the training and license exam fees, Nikita successfully earned her CDA, which resulted in a promotion and higher pay.
As the daycare grew, the need for qualified lead teachers also grew. Daycare teachers are required to have an associate degree. A program graduate herself, the owner recommended Nikita enroll in the Early Childhood Education program at a partnership site. Initially hesitant about going back to school, Nikita was won over by the flexibility of the program. The program was fully online, allowing her to balance work, family, and studies. “I can work, do home life, and go to class,” she realized. The self-paced nature even allowed her to work ahead. The program was cost-effective, with financial support from the TEACH grant.
In addition to the center, Nikita had the support of Partnership Site Coordinator Dr. Mrinalini Sebastian, who goes above and beyond to ensure students have everything they need to succeed. Dr. Sebastian even brought Nikita a necessary textbook at work one evening so she wouldn’t miss class. “I started crying,” Nikita recalls. “It’s rare to find someone who looks out for others, who makes sure others have what they need.” Her coworker, now inspired, has also entered the program.
After completing her associate degree in December 2022, Dr. Sebastian encouraged Nikita to take the next step: a Bachelor’s degree. Knowing that taking a break would likely end her educational journey, Nikita kept the momentum going, enrolling in the BA program at Chestnut Hill in January 2023. The pursuit of a degree was deeply personal, fulfilling a dream she always had and honoring her late grandmother—a kindergarten teacher who often told her, “the kids need you, you have to teach them.” Nikita also had the support of her family. She often did homework alongside them, and her older son, age 25, stepped up to help with household responsibilities. At her graduation, he cried, immensely proud of her achievement.
Nikita’s hard work and dedication paid off. She has since been promoted to Director at the daycare, earning three times more than her entry level wage as a classroom assistant.
To those considering taking the first step into college, Nikita offers this reassurance, “It’s gonna be worth it.”