Five From the Same Frederick Family on Campus This Fall

Charles and Georgia Baldwin work full time and are taking a full load of classes at Frederick Community College this fall. While they blend in with the other adult students, what sets them apart is that they are also joined by three of their five children.

While the Frederick couple have a kindergartner and a second-grader at home, their three oldest children also attend FCC: Alexis, 20, is in the respiratory care program; Soti, 19, is studying arts education; and Raquel, 18, is taking criminal justice classes. All three graduated from Thomas Johnson High School.
“We came back to school to set an example for the kids,” said Georgia who works for the federal government and is studying business administration. “In my day you could enter the workforce with a high school diploma. Today you need that college credential.”

She said she was nervous returning to the classroom after a lengthy absence, but aside from one student thinking she was an instructor, she has fit right in. “We contribute a little more to the classroom because we have a stronger background and life experiences and the instructors appreciate our input,” said Georgia who takes evening and online classes. "FCC has been great and we love how convenient it is to where we live.”

Charles, the lead groundskeeper at FEMA’s National Emergency Training Center in Emmitsburg, Md, said he enrolled at the community college to be a role model for his kids, and to earn credentials to move up the career ladder. He said the college experience so far has “surpassed my expectations.”
The couple said they enjoy the shared experience of learning together, discussing issues and their classes, and studying as a family.