When Chris Sharp talks about his college journey, one thing is clear: Despite what he’s had to overcome, it’s been totally worth it.
Chris is graduating in May with an Associate of Arts degree in psychology, a path that reflects both personal growth and a clear vision for the future.
Searching for Excellence
Chris chose Front Range Community College after hearing strong recommendations and seeing its reputation firsthand.
“Everybody brags about it,” he says. “It’s kind of this elite community college.”
That sense of excellence shaped his overall experience. “It was easy to decide to go,” he adds. “It has tradition but feels modern, and people just really excel here.”
A Supportive and Engaging Experience
Chris describes his time at FRCC as both supportive and intellectually engaging, especially as a student returning to school later in life.
“I loved the support services—academic advising, disability services. They were great for me,” Chris says.
He emphasized how impactful that support was:
“Especially being a little bit older and coming back into academics, it was great,” he shares. “I cannot say that enough.”
Challenging in “All the Right Ways”
Beyond support services, Chris found the coursework meaningful and thoughtfully designed.
“The classes are very well thought out. There’s a broad range of classes which are challenging, but in all the right ways,” he says. “They really make you think.”
He especially appreciated how instructors went beyond teaching content to teaching exactly how to succeed in college.
Faculty Who Make an Impact
Chris credits key individuals for shaping his experience, including his academic advisor Christina and a standout professor, Jessica Mahoney.
What made the class special was the level of engagement—especially in an online format.
“She gives great audio feedback, which is great to hear,” Chris says. “It makes you feel connected in an online class.”
That feedback became something he genuinely looked forward to:
“I find myself just really excited to hear what she has to say.”
Overcoming Challenges
Chris’ path to graduation wasn’t without obstacles. Returning to school later in life came with its own learning curve, along with significant health challenges.
“Coming back into school a little bit later in life, getting the brain to ‘kick back on’ sometimes is a little difficult,” he jokes.
He also shared that he’s faced health issues. Despite hospital visits and uncertainty, he persisted with strong support from faculty and campus resources.
“It’s just been about finding that balance of what can I get done when I can and communicating,” Chris says.
A Diverse, Vibrant Community
One of the most meaningful parts of Chris’ experience was the sense of belonging he found at FRCC.
“Everybody’s here—people just out of high school, people coming back later in life. Everybody I’ve met has been so positive and very accepting,” he says.
And ultimately, “there’s just a pride I feel that I have not had with other schools,” Chris says.
A Purpose-Driven Path
Chris’ academic journey is deeply connected to his personal story. After facing serious health challenges and addiction, he found clarity in wanting to help others.
“I did develop alcoholism, and I had to go through a program,” he shares.
That experience sparked a desire to give back: He’s particularly passionate about improving how society supports those struggling with addiction, explaining that supportive spaces are needed but often underfunded. His goal is rooted in empathy.
He’s also considering working as a high school guidance counselor to support students earlier in life.
A Strong Support System
Chris credits his success to the people around him, including his husband and his sister.
He also acknowledged the role of his recovery community:
“Shout out to my addiction group, Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery,” he said.
Looking Ahead
Next, Chris will continue his education at the University of Northern Colorado to pursue his degree in psychology.
He’s excited about what’s ahead. For Chris, graduation represents more than a degree. It’s a deeply personal achievement.
“I feel this huge sense of accomplishment. I’m very proud of myself,” he says. “I don’t think I’ve ever been this happy with what I’ve done with my life.”
Words for Fellow Students
Chris leaves fellow graduates with encouragement and perspective:
“Stick to it. Enjoy it. Celebrate the wins.”
He reminds students to embrace the experience fully, calling college a special moment in a person’s life.
And for anyone considering FRCC, Chris offers a clear message:
“Just try it out!”
