Keela Leath has worked at the University of Michigan’s Mott Children’s Hospital for nearly six years, but until recently, she didn’t see it as a career — just a job.
As a clerical team member in the hospital’s radiography department, Leath witnessed the powerful impact of hands-on patient care and began to dream of a more meaningful role in health care.
That dream is now becoming reality, thanks to the affordability of Washtenaw Community College.
This Fall semester, the Ypsilanti resident will begin WCC’s Radiography associate degree program. She’s already completed her prerequisites, an achievement made possible by WCC’s low tuition and generous financial aid.
Fall 2025 classes begin August 25. Enroll today!
With in-district tuition at just $99 per credit hour, WCC is one of Michigan’s most affordable higher education options. Leath’s journey is further supported by two scholarships from the WCC Foundation and a Federal Pell Grant.
“Without them, school would not be an affordable option for me,” Leath says. “I am so grateful for these resources that will allow me to pursue my dream of working in health care. With this, I can secure not only my future but the future of my young family.”
Affordability is central to WCC’s mission and tuition remains low thanks in part to strong community support. For in-district students taking a full course load (30 credits annually), tuition costs less than $3,000 a year. Students who complete their first two years at WCC before transferring to a four-year school in Michigan can save $20,000 or more.
And students like Leath, who receive additional financial aid, can save even more.
“The numerous options for financial assistance ensure that students facing hardships can focus on their academic goals without added financial stress,” says Leath. “I wholeheartedly believe an educated society is a thriving society.”
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This story first appeared in the Summer 2025 edition of Launch magazine.
Tags: Affordability, Radiography, Scholarships, Tuition, financial aid