Get to Know HFC: Cynthia Smith
When HFC Enrollment Associate III Cynthia Smith was a student at HFC, the warm, positive environment at the Welcome Center had a great impact on her.
“I was embraced, encouraged, and eager to be a part of team that put student success first!” said Smith, who lives in Dearborn with her husband John.
Born and raised in Detroit, Smith attended what is now Old Redford Academy. Upon graduating, she attended HFC, where she earned her associate degree in liberal arts and, later, her certification as a Customer Service Professional. Transferring to Siena Heights University, Smith earned her bachelor’s degree in liberal arts.
Wanting to make her career at HFC
Smith has worked at the College for more than eight years, beginning as a work-study student in the Welcome Center Lab in 2013. When she graduated from HFC in May 2014, she was hired as an Enrollment Associate I two months later. She was promoted to Enrollment Associate II in 2015 and remained in that position for three years until her promotion to her current position of Enrollment Associate III. Smith reports to HFC Assistant Director of Enrollment Services, Assessment, and Orientation Nikole Ford-Kondraciuk.
“I fell in love with the Enrollment Associate III position and wanted to make this my career,” said Smith.
Her duties include:
- Assisting students who are applying to HFC
- Assisting students who are filling out Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms, as well as scholarship applications
- Assisting students who are registering for classes at HFC
- Scheduling advising appointments
- Assisting students who are applying for graduation
- Resetting passwords
“We resolve all issues regarding admissions, registration, financial aid, student accounts, and all enrollment questions,” said Smith. “The best part of my job is helping students enroll at the College and watching them walk across the stage at graduation, thanking me for my help in their academic success.”
“HFC changed my life”
Ford-Kondraciuk holds Smith in high regard.
“Cynthia came to our office as a student, and we didn’t want her to leave! She has served in several roles in our office and has been a great addition to our Enrollment Services team. Many students request Cynthia by name. She goes above and beyond to make sure all the puzzle pieces connect for a student to succeed at HFC,” said Ford-Kondraciuk.
Smith got her inspiration early at HFC.
“Henry Ford College has changed my life,” said Smith. “I met my husband at the Welcome Center, and I have grown into a happier more successful woman who encourages others to achieve their educational goals at HFC.”