Samoney Chisolm wants to improve patients’ health and well-being. Her professional dream is to own multiple businesses, including a wellness care center where she will work as a physical therapist assistant (PTA).

Born in South Carolina, Chisolm also lived in Kansas before settling in the Bradenton-Sarasota area. She began as a dual enrollment student at State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) in Bradenton in 2018. After taking a break for a few years, she returned to SCF in 2022 and earned her associate in arts degree. Now, as a mom and student, she is pursuing an associate in science degree in the college’s PTA program.

“Since the first day I attended SCF, I loved the atmosphere, the respect everyone gives out, the community, and the cost, which is more affordable than other schools,” said Chisolm. “We can go at our own pace with the prerequisites. The staff understands that we are human; they don’t get upset if life happens.”

Chisolm benefits from keeping active in student life and leadership. She serves as president of the Inter-Club Council, part of the Student Government Association that supports student clubs in connecting, collaborating and being heard. As a member of the PTA club, she is able to socialize with students in health care studies and participate in volunteer service events in the community. The PTA club and occupational therapy assistant club jointly served at a local church, including assisting with gait training exercises, home safety education and assistive device and vital signs measurement.

Student support is another valuable part of Chisolm’s student experience. She appreciates her long-term relationships with the TRIO Student Support Services administrators, whom she considers her mentors, guides and educators.

“I like how SCF is here for us educationally and personally,” Chisolm said. “If students are experiencing any troubles, they can go to Building 1 (Student Services Center) and ask for help from Student CARE Services.”

She is grateful for her family’s support, especially her son’s father, who helps create time for both play and studies as she balances motherhood and academics.

After her expected graduation in Spring 2027, Chisolm plans to start her career, own a home and possibly travel for work. She hopes to visit Bali, Indonesia. She credits higher education as the pathway to personal and professional achievements.

“A college education means success because it gives me the knowledge and opportunity to build the future that I know is destined for me,” Chisolm said. “It also represents security because it provides stability.”

Through flexible pathways, meaningful student involvement and strong support services, SCF empowers students like Samoney to continue their education and achieve their goals.

At SCF, we meet you where you are. We’re Everyone’s College.

Learn more about SCF’s Physical Therapist Assistant program at SCF.edu.

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