Scholarship Keeps Dream Alive
As a high school student, Julie Ward never imagined
working in the
medical field but after willingly taking on the responsibility of caring for her great grandmother that changed. During the six months, Julie cared for her great grandmother; somedays were more challenging then others but her great grandmother made her promise that she would attend school to become a Certified Nursing Assistant.
Julie started her classes only a few weeks after her great grandmother had passed and graduated in eight weeks with her certification. Following graduation she dedicated the last 14 years to caring for people as a CNA. Recently, she decided it was time to move forward and advance her career. She started pursing an associate'
s degree in general studies to complete prerequisite classes needed to apply for the Licensed Practical Nursing Program (LPN). Becoming an LPN is just one of her many goals for her future as she plans to continue her education through an RN program and Masters in Nursing. "I want to give my family a lifestyle I never had. I do not want to live paycheck to paycheck anymore." Said Ward.
Julie is the first person in her family to graduate high school, will be the first to graduate from college and the first to have an established career. This scholarship awarded through the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) is covering the remaining balance of her tuition and her books required for her classes. "My family is not wealthy and we have always struggled financially, being able to go to school to be a nurse, I am able to break the cycle. I know what it is like to wonder where the next meal will come from, if the lights will be shut off. Its not something I wish on anyone." Said Ward.
"This is just the beginning for me and I want to assure you that your generous gift will not be forgotten. Getting and maintaining a high GPA is important to me. Each step I take now is for my future. I will succeed. " Said Ward
Written by: Breann Titus, Director of Agency Development
(context from customer's personal essay and testimony)
