Where did you grow up?

I lived in southeast Michigan, specifically Sterling Heights.

How would you describe yourself as a middle or high school student?  

I would say I was a little above average student- I earned mostly A's and B's.  I had a small group of friends.  I was funny!  I had a part-time job starting at the age of 14 on.  I did not participate in many activities or sports,

Did you feel added pressure /responsibility being the first in your family to attend/ graduate from college?  Explain?  Were there any struggles?

Once I got to college, I never thought about not finishing.  If I started, I would finish.  I didn't really think college is where I would go after high school.  It was during my senior year that my English teacher who told me I needed to go, saying "You are college material."

What college did you attend/graduate from?  Who formed your support system?

I went to Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan.  My mom and I talked daily since she moved to North Carolina after dropping me off at college.  I lived with an aunt over the summers.  She was very supportive too.  I also appreciated high school friends and new ones I made at college.

What major did you pursue?  Why?

I graduated with a major in Elementary Education with English and Social Studies minors so I could teach middle school students.  I wanted to impact girls with self-esteem issues and help them reach their goals.

What did it mean to your family that you earned a college degree?

While my parents didn't go to college, my grandpa and step-dad did, so it was not this major achievement.  For my mom, however, it was huge.  She was so proud that I would have a chance to live independently and not struggle with finances, or need to rely on a husband like she did.  

When you face obstacles or challenges now, how do you overcome them?

I always think that I can overcome them.  Failure is not an option.  Sometimes you have to get creative or have things not be 100% what you think but it always works out.

Who is someone who championed you through your life?  

My step-grandpa helped me financially during my first year at Ferris State University.  I was short on tuition - by a lot, and he gave me what I needed.  He said it was the best investment he ever made!

What piece of advice or words of wisdom do you have to WYWLA students who will be the first in their family to attend/graduate from college? 

Learn about FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)!  Money for college is out there for you.  If you can get them, subsidized loans are better than unsubsidized.  Grants and scholarships are the best because you don't have to pay them back!  My university gave me scholarships for my good grades, so don't skip class-ever!  Sit in the front of the class so you pay attention!