Dawna Moody
Obtaining a college degree is important to me for three reasons:
- 1) My children need to learn by example;
- 2) I deserve it!;
- 3) The community deserves to have one more college educated black women who will help to meet their needs and provide available resources.
Six years ago I was diagnosed with end stage renal disease (kidney failure) and systemic lupus. I have survived through perseverance and hard work. I went back to school for a short period of time but my dialysis schedule prevented me from committing to full-time learning. I became frustrated and quit.
Soon after, I obtained an administrative assistant position at my church and have been working there since 2005. I love the work I do. Not only do I help meet congregational needs but also the needs of the surrounding community. People from all walks of life ring the door bell day-to-day. I am able to listen to their needs and meet them by providing community resources and sometimes just offering them an encouraging word.
I want to continue my education because I believe my true calling is to counsel those in the community who are looking for help through knowledgeable insight and encouragement. Financially, I need help. When I quit school a few years back, my student aid was frozen due to a lack of completed credit hours. I am ready to go back and feel now is the time.
I work part-time at the church and need help financially but also believe that the online experience would be right for me due to my hectic daily schedule. If given the help needed to continue my education, the end product would be a tremendous asset to the community. Thank you for granting me this opportunity to recieve a scholarship through this wonderful program.