Aiken Tech student wins $1,000 NISOD student essay contest

Aiken Technical College student Mickyzjha Moore is one of three national winners of the $1,000 NISOD student essay contest and was recently recognized during the organization’s international conference in Austin, Texas. 

Moore was one of three winners from over 150 entries. Aiken Tech Early Childhood Education instructor Lynda Altman and Patsy Fields, the college’s National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) representative, accompanied Moore at the International Conference on Teaching and Leadership Excellence in late May.

Moore’s winning essay, “The Nonlinear Path,” is a testament to her resilience and determination. It delves into her journey of battling mental health and depression, a story that is sure to inspire others. 

“I know I can succeed in my courses because Mrs. Altman has always believed in me. I am diligent in my studies because of the guidance she gives me,” Moore stated. “Due to her support, I went from a college dropout to a student who maintains a high GPA and has an invitation to join Phi Theta Kappa. I could not have accomplished that if she had not encouraged me to continue attending college. Although my academic journey has not been linear, because of Mrs. Altman, I am on the path to graduation.”

The NISOD is dedicated to empowering community and technical college faculty, administrators, and staff. Their mission is to foster professional growth, strive for excellence, make a significant impact, and gain recognition.

Building trust and forming a bond with Altman is what helped Moore succeed in her studies and keep fighting.

“Through honesty, I could speak with my academic advisor and Early Childhood Education instructor, Lynda Altman, about my insecurities. Her advice and guidance have been instrumental in helping me continue my education at Aiken Technical College. Furthermore, I excel in my courses due to Mrs. Altman’s guidance.”

Altman’s knowledge of early childhood education theorists “ignited a motivation” for Moore to learn more about the inner workings of children’s minds. This helped her choose her career path in education psychology.

For more information on Aiken Technical College's early education program, visit atc.edu/programs-of-study.