Making Dreams a Reality

Published: May 16, 2019

Hometown: Big Bear Lake, California

Major: Psychology, Sociology

Graduation Year: 2019

“Because of CWI, my dreams are coming true,” said 2019 graduate, Heather Williams.

In 2010, feeling unhappy and stuck with no way out, Heather made the 1,400-mile trek from Iowa to Idaho to start a new life.

“I wanted to expand my education in order to do what I love – helping people, particularly children who may be struggling in life and need someone to be there to listen and be their advocate. I didn’t have that growing up.”

The beginning of Heather’s final semester at CWI was an extremely hectic, chaotic, and stressful time. Only needing to complete two more courses in order to graduate, her schedule did not align with the classes being offered. With the help of her advisor and Psychology instructor, she was able to construct and implement a plan for success.

“After a few conversations and proving how hard I had worked to get to that point, my instructor [and 2011 CWI graduate], Rhiannon Trull, allowed me to take her course remotely. It was a challenge, but through it all, I passed the course! Because she trusted in me, I will graduate both a Sociology and Psychology 𲵰!”

This fall, Heather will transfer to to continue studying Psychology. Her ultimate goals are to complete a master’s degree and fulfill her dream of becoming a child psychologist.  

“CWI empowered me to build confidence in myself and my work. At CWI, I felt important and not just another student in a chair. The faculty and staff go above and beyond to help students be successful. I think everyone should attend CWI!”

More from CWI

Six students stand in front of a curtain

CWI Speech & Debate earns six individual awards and three team honors at the Dugaw Smelt Classic. The team also secures a season-long Silver Award in the NFC.

Read more about Speech and Debate Opens Spring with Strong Finish at Dugaw Smelt Classic
Student at board with wires

Through CWI’s Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology program, Cesar Rodriguez pairs classroom precision with real-world industry experience.

Read more about Curiosity Powers a Career
Alexus Hill reads a book in the middle of a classroom

Alexus Hill turns caring for kids into a career, advocating for children and supporting families through Early Childhood Education.

Read more about Turning Passion into Purpose
Person sitting on a stool, next to desk and welding tools

Frank Ramirez combines skill, creativity, and confidence at CWI, turning welding into a path to personal and professional growth.

Read more about Crafting Confidence Through Welding
Student stands in greenhouse in front of several plants

Amalie Bolinder turned a passion for plants into a path at CWI, gaining hands-on experience, leadership roles, and industry recognition.

Read more about Growing a Future in Horticulture
Amy Miller stands in front of a library bookcase

Amy Miller returned to college after two decades, turning her passion for art into a path for teaching and helping kids.

Read more about Returning to School, Rediscovering a Passion
Person stands next to pillar and table

After retiring from the Coast Guard, Ryan Agre found renewed purpose at CWI, earning a management degree and launching a new career through support and community.

Read more about Coast Guard Veteran Charts New Course at CWI
Students sitting down and laughing

CWI honored 15 Practical Nursing graduates during a traditional pinning ceremony Thursday, Dec. 11, at Saint Alphonsus’ McCleary Auditorium in Boise.

Read more about Fall 2025 Practical Nursing Pinning Ceremony
Graduates raising their hand and taking an oath

Graduates from CWI Fire Service Technology Class 7 walked across the Nampa Civic Center stage on Dec. 10, taking the Firefighter Code of Ethics oath to mark the completion of their...

Read more about Fall 2025 Fire Service Technology Graduation Ceremony
Student stands in front of machine tool technology equipment

Robert Bach transformed his life at CWI, finding purpose in machining and welding and continuing on in his studies to shape a career he once struggled to imagine.

Read more about Bach Finds His Fit at CWI
Six students stand on the steps in front of a building with awards

CWI Speech & Debate earns 10 awards and 2nd place in Division III at the 95th Mahaffey Memorial Tournament.

Read more about CWI Speech & Debate Shines at Mahaffey Memorial Tournament
Firefighting student standing next to fire truck

After a major injury sidelined his training, Fire Service Technology student Kaden Bryant fought back stronger. Now he is steps away from achieving his dream of becoming a firefighter.

Read more about Bryant Turns Setback into Firefighting Dream

News QR Code

URL: /news/making-dreams-reality<br>