Two Sisters Inspire Each Other to Achieve Success at South College

Sisters Amanda and Breanna Brown are only two years apart in age and do nearly everything together. Right now, that includes pursuing Associate of Science degrees in Criminal Justice at the South College, Knoxville campus.

“Since we were little, we both have had a dream to become crime scene investigators,” says Amanda. “After we graduate, we hope to work for the Knoxville Police Department.”

After losing both their mother and grandmother in a short period of time, the pair were drawn even closer than before. Following that experience, they decided the time was right to pursue their career goals. To do that, they resolved to become the first in their family to attend college, and they would do it together. However, after visiting several schools, they struggled to find one that felt right. That changed at South College.

“When we took a tour of South College, we felt welcomed and important as soon as we walked in the door,” she recalls. “Everyone was so helpful.”

Since starting classes, each sister regularly works to motivate, inspire, and support the other. It’s reassuring knowing that they always have another person to lean on or turn to, no matter what.

“We help each other study, and we quiz each other,” says Amanda. “We work hard because we want to make our mother and grandma proud since they didn’t get to see us go to college before they passed away.”

The personalized attention and one-on-one interactions from the faculty and staff at South College have also been valuable in the sisters’ educational experience. “The thing we like most about attending South College is the amazing instructors we have had who encourage us in school, help whenever needed, and always go the extra mile for their students,” Amanda says.

For now, the sisters have their sights fully set on completing their associate degree. One day though, they might choose to continue their education. As for where they’ll do that, they already know the place. “If we decide to further our degree,” says Amanda, “we are going to come back to South College.”