Ryan Hayner

Ryan HaynerSiena College
Class of 2008
Sociology
Hometown: Waterviliet, New York

As my high school years began to draw to a close, I knew that I wanted to better myself through a college education. However, I was unsure if it was going to be financially possible. My mother had surgery and could not work, and I knew that I could not pay for it on my own. Throughout high school, I had to work just to keep some money in my pocket to lead a normal teenage life. However, I held onto hope, and began looking at schools. I looked at Siena College, and it was at this time that I heard about the Higher Education Opportunity Program(HEOP). I fell in love with Siena College, and applied for HEOP. I was accepted into the program and it was the best thing that could have ever happened to me. I never would have had the opportunity to attend Siena College, or any other, if it weren't for HEOP. The help that they have given me throughout my college years, both financially and academically, has been amazing. Because of HEOP, I will graduate next year and I am well on my way to a successful career and life.