ASHLAND, Ky. — For Kayla Tolbert and hundreds of others, Saturday morning marked the end of one journey and the beginning of another.

The 29-year-old Ironton resident was one of more than 500 students who graduated from Ashland Community & Technical College. The ceremony was held at the Paramount Arts Center.

“It feels good,” Tolbert said, standing outside the PAC as she awaited the ceremony with fellow graduates. “This is something that I’ve worked for. I started in 2001 and I’m just now getting finished so it’s an amazing feeling.”

The mother of three said she hopes her achievement is something that can inspire her children.

“I wanted them to be here so they could follow in my footsteps maybe,” Tolbert, a graduate of the associates in art and associates in science programs, said.

Tolbert plans to study at Shawnee State University and eventually work as a physical therapist’s assistant.

Saturday’s ceremony featured State Representative Tanya Pullin, of Kentucky’s 98th District, as the guest speaker and Ashland resident Cheryl Cook as the student speaker.

The 521 graduates — a record number for the school — included those who graduated in August 2010, December 2010 and this month. Many of the graduates earned more than one degree, diploma or certificate. In all, the school awarded 127 associate in arts degrees, 84 associate in science degrees, 243 associate in applied science degrees, 137 diplomas and 710 certificates.

Justin Chafin of Grayson, Ky., graduated with an associate in arts degree.

“I’m just glad its over,” the 22-year-old said. “(I’m glad) I got here and we made it.”

Cosmetology graduate Karri Tussey, 28, of Ashland, echoed Chafin’s thoughts.

“I’m probably going to cry but I’m glad I did it,” Tussey said. “I’ve been here two and a half years and I’m glad I’m done.”