Promise Scholar Finds Community At RBC

Promise Scholar and commuter student Abigail Holmes formed connections during COVID and appreciates Richard Bland College’s inclusive dynamics

By Amy Lacey

Like the majority of graduates from the class of 2020, Abigail Holmes’ farewell to high school was largely unceremonious.

“COVID hit me hard,” Holmes remembered. “I couldn’t go to homeschool prom or homeschool graduation. You get to know all the homeschool students from around the area over the course of high school. You want to be together, and COVID took all of that away.”

Because of the coronavirus pandemic and quarantine, the now 19-year-old’s senior year transitioned to hours in front of a computer screen to complete her education. It was a major change from the daily interactions she had experienced through a homeschooling cooperative and sports teams. 

Holmes’ first semester at Richard Bland College offered the connection she craved. 

“Coming to Richard Bland was great because I could take my classes in person; most were hybrid, and they did a great job of not completely shutting down,” Holmes described. “They’ve always allowed students on campus even during the pandemic, but they have made it safe for everyone.”

Holmes is one of RBC’s Promise Scholars, a program that provides eligible students courses from the College of William & Mary, scholarships, and guaranteed transfer to W&M.  

Holmes, who lives at home in Chester, Va., is also part of the Honors Program; RBC requires members to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.25, participate in volunteer projects, and take part in advanced opportunities.

“Being in Promise Scholars has been so beneficial for me at RBC,” Holmes explained. “It allows me to be with a certain group of students the whole time. Being a commuter, that is so helpful since I’m not on campus. I know the program and the honors students, and we do things together, have similar goals and are like-minded.”

Last year Holmes also served on the Student Assembly, RBC’s student government. She appreciates the number and variety of programs and clubs available on campus. 

“There’s a lot going on,” Holmes said. “There’s a cool program where students talk with international students and help them with English. It allows them to get used to our culture and pick up phrases we use here to develop their English and be more conversational.”

Holmes is currently taking an interpersonal communication class at RBC and hopes to tap into that learning one day to become a professional or technical writer.

Holmes enjoys the challenges RBC offers through Promise Scholars and the Honors Program. She encourages others to consider it when exploring options for higher education, knowing students will find a community regardless if they live on or off campus.

“I would definitely recommend it to commuter students. The in-person classes are great. The online is great,” Holmes said. “And professors are always responsive and willing to help you. Richard Bland has a little bit of everything.”