Audrey Shepherd, a native of Garden City, chose to enroll at Garden City Community College in the fall of 2017 due to the outstanding reputation of its Criminal Justice program.
“I chose to attend Garden City Community College because I knew that their Criminal Justice program would help me excel in what I wanted to do, career-wise. I felt that Garden City Community College would be a great first step in fulfilling my future,” she said.
During her time at GCCC, Shepherd actively participated in Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) and gained invaluable lessons in work ethic.
Reflecting on her experience, Audrey emphasized the significance of diligence.
“The most important thing that I have learned while attending Garden City Community College is work ethic,” she said. “ In order to be successful, I had to put time, quality, and effort into my work, whether it be homework, projects, or volunteer work. I believe that my efforts at GCCC have led to positive outcomes in other aspects of my life, including in my career.”
Upon graduating with an associate in science degree in Criminal Justice from GCCC in 2019, Shepherd pursued further education at Washburn University, earning her Bachelor of Applied Science in Criminal Justice – Security Administration with a minor in Digital Forensics in 2021.
She now serves as a Criminal Intelligence Analyst at the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, where she assists agents and collaborates with other agencies to gather crucial information on various subjects.
Reflecting on her educational journey, Audrey acknowledged the pivotal role that her GCCC
education played in her success.
“My GCCC education has contributed to my success by giving me the knowledge that I needed to advance in my education and career. I have been able to apply what I have learned to my education at Washburn University, as well as to my work and home life. My GCCC education has been beneficial in every way,” she said.
Offering advice to current and prospective GCCC students, Audrey urged perseverance and
goal setting.
“Do not give up on your goals! Allow yourself time to identify what you want to do. Set your own goals, and always try your best to meet those goals. Anything is possible!” she said.
Shepherd expressed gratitude towards her instructors and the institution as a
whole.
“I am very thankful for my instructors at GCCC and for the knowledge and advice that they have provided. I appreciate all that GCCC has done for me,” she said. Garden City Community College is proud to have played a role in Audrey’s success. Make a
difference for future Busters by starting your own Endowed Scholarship through the GCCC
President’s Scholarship Initiative/
