3 minute read
Evelyn’s Path to College and a Brighter Future
Evelyn has been at South Georgia Technical College for two semesters working towards becoming a welder. She never thought she would go to college, much less choose welding as a career. However, she surprised herself. “I just took a chance and I loved it immediately. It gets my adrenaline going and more so it makes me feel empowered,” she shared. Evelyn is one of four female welders in her class currently. Welding is traditionally a male-led industry, but Evelyn is a part of the growing generation of women in welding.
We were so incredibly proud of Evelyn earlier this year when she made it onto the President’s List for Summer Semester 2024 for her outstanding academic performance! Her hard work made her eligible for a scholarship from the school itself. Evelyn credits her teachers for her achievement. “I love my instructors. They are really nice, good people. They have helped me so much,” she shared. Evelyn is also grateful for The Methodist Home and our Independent Living Program, which really helped prepare her for college life and gave her the structure she needed and continues to use today.
Evelyn was at The Methodist Home for six years before graduating. “When I first got there, I thought it was bad. I did not like all the rules. However, as I got older, I realized the rules were for our safety. The Home was doing what was best for us all. I appreciate it more now. The Methodist Home has done a lot for me and continues to do so,” she shared.
At first, Evelyn was not going to continue school after she completed high school. As she thought more and more about it, she realized she had this amazing opportunity. “My older sister did not get this opportunity nor did my other family members. I wanted to break the generational chains tied to my family and be the first one to go to college,” she shared. Once Evelyn is finished with school and working in her field she plans to be generous in her giving. She just wants to be able to take care of her family, especially her sisters.
Kaylee, Evelyn’s younger sister, is still in our care. Evelyn is very much looking forward to spending time with her and coming back to our Macon campus during her school breaks. Our hearts are full knowing our mission is helping youth and young adults like Evelyn and her sister!
