06/17/2026
Bethany Bishop enrolled in college at age 19, initially as a biology major, but soon realized after working part-time at a church nursery that early childhood education was a perfect fit for her. “At TCTC, I developed a passion for early childcare,” she said. It was solidified through her experiences at internships and jobs. “My degree really prepared me for what was next,” said Bethany, who graduated from TCTC in 2024.
That year she moved to British Columbia Canada on a temporary visa to gain international experience in teaching. She applied to a private school and was hired as a second-grade teaching assistant and later advanced to a curriculum teacher (2024 – 2025).
In 2026, she decided to move to England and enrolled as a full-time student at the University of the West of England.
“My TCTC courses and my work experience enabled me to only have to take eight months of classes to earn my bachelor’s degree,” said Bethany.
She has submitted all of her coursework and will graduate July 13 with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She plans to stay in England and has the option to apply for a visa for a two-year work experience. “I’m excited about my potential prospects,” she said.
“I’m so grateful for the foundation I received at TCTC and especially the practical real-world experiences in classrooms,” she said. She’s also grateful to have graduated from TCTC debt free, thanks to lottery funds and an SC LIFE scholarship.
“It’s so incredible to graduate and not be burdened with debt. It has allowed me to do what I have done,” she said.
She also will graduate with nominal debt with her bachelor’s degree.
At age 24, she will continue her career in education and plans to work as an adjunct teacher at a local college in the UK.
“I continue to be grateful for the lasting connections I have with my former TCTC instructors, like Meredith Dickens, who serves as a valuable friend and resource for me,” said Bethany.
