What does this scholarship award mean to you?
This scholarship award means that I get the opportunity to finish what I started. I have always encouraged my children to go above and beyond with their education no matter what the cost. The fact that someone else recognizes what I am doing and how I am doing it enough to help me with this journey is such a blessing to me and my family. The more education I receive, the more I have to share with the younger generation in my family and it is a blessing to be able to pursue the one thing no one can take.
Why did you choose to attend the University of Mississippi?
There are two reasons I choose to attend the University of Mississippi. I chose Ole Miss because it was local and the people I encountered spoke so highly of the educational institution it is. Secondly, I chose Ole Miss because it is somewhere I feel that I belong and can contribute to the growth of other students and the community where it is. Being a part of a community that has grown over the years and overcome so many obstacles is an honor for me.
What inspired you to pursue a degree at the School of Education?
My daughter was diagnosed with a disability and it inspired me to pursue a degree in education. I was told she would never be able to read or comprehend to graduate with a high school diploma and it traumatized me as a mother. I volunteered at the school she attended with students that had learning disabilities and fell in love with what I saw happening for the students. They inspired me to go beyond volunteering and become someone who could actually become the help. I have a passion for what I do and the SOE helped me get here.