Job-hunting can be daunting for anyone. So, what do you do if you have the skills and experience employers are looking for but not the degree they require? 

If you’re N’Kenge Gonzalez, you keep your head up and you hit the books. 

N'Kenge started by earning an associate degree at Oakland Community College. Next, she transferred to UM-Dearborn and is working toward her bachelor’s degree in international studies.

And she isn’t stopping there.

N’Kenge quickly became involved on campus through the Women’s Resource Center’s Transitions Program for Returning Women Students. She joined the National Society of Leadership and Success and the Public Relations Student Society of America.

In June 2014, she attended the National Conference for College Student Leaders and returned home determined to make a difference on campus. 

In addition to her classwork and campus activities, N’Kenge takes time to speak about her experiences to inspire others. Why? She hopes to make their lives just a little easier.

“Her talks leave students hopeful and more confident in pursuing educational, professional and personal goals,” said Lee Savage, program manager of the Women’s Resource Center (WRC). 

N'Kenge also became involved with Elect Her, a national training program that encourages and trains college women to run for student government and future political office, and serves as the student liaison for UM-Dearborn’s Elect Her workshop. In May, she will share her insights with others at the national conference.

“N’Kenge has made a difference in the WRC and on campus with her energy, sense of humor and passion for helping women in finding their purpose,” Savage said.

While she has a few semesters left before graduating, N’Kenge has big plans for her future. Her goal is to break into the entertainment industry and work toward leading an agency.