Graduate

Sara Welch

  • Program

    John R. Fawcett Memorial Scholarship ( School of Education ), M.A. Higher Education/Student Personnel ( School of Education )
  • Hometown

    McCarley, MS (South)
  • Social Media

  • Quick Intro

    Sara Austin Welch is a recent graduate of the University of Mississippi. She earned a degree in Public Policy Leadership through the Trent Lott Leadership Institute as well as a minor in Intelligence and Security Studies. As an undergraduate she was highly involved around campus, most notably with her community service within the Luckyday Scholarship Program and as her time serving as the 2023-2024 Associated Student Body President. Pursuing her next degree, she will be a graduate assistant for Federal and Legislative Relations.

Meet Sara

What does this scholarship award mean to you?

This award will not only alleviate a financial burden of education but it will encourage me to continue to do well in school to reach my goals. I am deeply appreciative of this opportunity, as it puts me closer to my aim of making a significant contribution in the field of education.

What inspired you to pursue a degree at the School of Education?

I was diagnosed with ADHD at a young age and have struggled in the classroom my entire life. My elementary school teacher grandmother fought hard to help me comprehend subjects. Since education was a subject I always found difficult and frustrating, I developed an aversion to it. This past year, I had the honor of serving as ASB President where I was tasked with not only being a student but determining what other students needed to have success. I realized how vital education is and vowed to overcome and assist others to do so instead of fleeing from school.

What do you plan to do after graduation?

Upon completion of my masters in higher education, I intend to pursue a law degree in order to enhance my knowledge in the industry. My ultimate goal is to serve as the general counsel for a university in Mississippi or work in the education policy sector.