First-gen student’s international experiences made her fearless

HFC student Charvae Jackson says she learned about Rocket Kids by chance.

“I found Rocket Kids through an unexpected email from HFC Communications,” said Jackson. “After that original email in 2024, I did my research on Handshake, Google, and HFC's website. It sounded fun and challenging and I thought it would be a great experience, so I applied. Someone reached out to me the following week.”

Working with children in the Netherlands made her become a better leader

Founded in 2023, Rocket Kids is an experiential learning program managed by the Judith Herb College of Education at the University of Toledo in Ohio. The Department of Defense awarded UT a $1.5 million grant to fund this program, which sends college students to military bases overseas to run child development centers and camps as child development center coordinators and camp counselors for the children of people serving in the U.S. Army.

From March through June, Jackson worked with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in the Netherlands.

“I was able to visit five countries in my free time. I really enjoyed building relationships with the children. I absolutely adored the children, who came from various backgrounds from across the world. I’d talk to their parents about their children’s daily activities, behavior, and changes I observed during drop-offs and pick-ups. I would assist in creating lesson plans with teachers and planning events. My favorite part was doing arts and crafts with the children. It was everything you see in a public school,” explained Jackson.

This experience profoundly changed her.

“I was able to become a better leader,” said Jackson. “I was leading the classroom and dealing with children on my own at times. I found my own voice and could understand the impact I was making every day with the children. It helped me to become fearless.”

Setting an example for youth as a first-generation college student

A lifelong Detroiter, Jackson is the youngest of three and the only daughter. She is a first-generation college student in her family.

“I’m breaking new ground,” she said. “I do have a younger niece and younger cousins. I think it’s important to accomplish (getting a college education) right out of high school and set an example for the younger generation.”

Jackson is an alumna of Central High School in Detroit. After earning her associate degree in business administration from HFC, she will transfer to Eastern Michigan University, where she will major in business administration and minor in communications.

Loved the College’s community focus

“The College has expert professors who are professional, know their subjects, and love teaching their subjects, so that made it very easy for me. They’re up to date with the curriculum,” said Jackson. “The classes were tight-knit and felt like a family. They allowed you to speak clearly, express your thoughts, and not be afraid to ask questions until you understand what they’re teaching. HFC built up my confidence, and I hope to extend that same grace to other people.”

Another advantage was having access to the campus at night, such as the Eshleman Library, and having tutoring counseling services available at reasonable times.

“It wasn’t only about going to school and taking classes, it was about community. HFC helps students personally,” said Jackson. “Through the Student Emergency Aid Fund, the College can assist you with things like unexpected car repairs. There’s also the Hawks’ Nest food pantry. The College will help you any way it can, so you can keep coming to class and graduate. I love that aspect of HFC.”

A perfect example of what first-generation students can achieve

Since June, Jackson has been an intern in the City of Detroit Civil Rights, Inclusion & Opportunity (CRIO) Department. She collaborates with fellow interns working on various CRIO events, including:

• Juneteenth
• Disability Pride Month
• Black Business Crawl
• Other events that celebrate the city’s rich, diverse heritage

Her ultimate career goal is to start her own nonprofit organization.

“I want to know how to run it efficiently. That’s why I’m majoring in business administration,” said Jackson. “My nonprofit would assist the youth of Detroit with grade recovery, access to learning spaces, especially after hours, and career shadowing.”

HFC program advisor, Ashlei Chears, has worked with Jackson throughout her time at the College.

“It been amazing working with Charvae,” said Chears. “Not only is she an excellent student, but she also works hard and seeks out opportunities to do amazing things. She is a perfect example of what first-generation students can achieve.”