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Human Services A.S.

Antoinette Catalano

Antoinette Catalano knows what it means to struggle.

As a child, Catalano went from foster care to her grandmother’s, then bounced back and forth from New York to Port Richey staying with friends as a teen while trying to navigate life on her own. She started college years ago but abandoned her education goals when she left an abusive relationship and became a single mom.

A debilitating car accident in her 20s ultimately changed her trajectory — and helped her find family at St. Petersburg College.

“The car accident changed the route of my life,” said Catalano, of Port Richey, who was working two jobs as a server to support herself and her then 3-year-old son. She endured 10 broken bones and 10 surgeries following the accident. “I could only work minimal hours and realized, I really can’t do this long term.”

In the middle of a custody dispute, she began representing herself in court. The experience sparked a passion for the law and she suddenly realized that’s what she wanted to do.

“Something switched in my head,” she said, “I thought maybe I could become the kind of lawyer that can help people in situations like my own.”

Scholarships allowed her to begin her education again at SPC without added financial burden, and online courses gave her the flexibility to take care of her son and continue to work part time.

Catalano said the support she received from SPC faculty, staff and peers was key in helping her earn her associate degree in human services last fall at the age of 32. She is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree at SPC with aspirations of attending law school. She also serves as president of the Tarpon Springs chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) honor society.

“Since starting (at SPC) in 2022, the opportunities that opened up for me, it’s unreal for someone like me,” said Catalano, who says she struggled with imposter syndrome. “I never thought I could be in a leadership position and could do that. It really helped me understand my gifts as a person, what my skills are, and that everyone’s thoughts are valuable.”

During her time at SPC, she’s volunteered, conducted undergraduate research, attended leadership conferences, mentored new students, and collaborated with the First to Finished program to lead First Generation Day at the Tarpon Springs Campus. She credits these experiences beyond the classroom, and the unity among students and staff, with helping her build lasting bonds that make SPC feel like home. Now Catalano shares her story to let others know they are not alone.

“I know now that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. But most of all, I have learned that my past does not define me; I define me!”