James Patterson Presidential Scholars 2024 by pbscfdn

JAMES PATTERSON PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS StudentReflections 2023-2024 James Patterson Presidential Scholarship at PBSC

May 30, 2024

Dear James and Sue,

With five years gone by since you graciously joined Palm Beach State College for STEAM 2018, I am still moved by your words. Thanks to you, the event was a perfect blend of showcasing the College as never before, engaging with our community and launching the James Patterson Presidential Scholarship. For this, I am as grateful as the students who benefit from your generosity.

These letters of appreciation from recipients of your scholarship are a testament to the power of education, philanthropy and opportunity. Your belief in them and trust in us have, in fact, given our young people opportunities they may have never known. Because of you, they can remain on solid academic and professional paths toward a future that serves them, their families and this community.

The James Patterson Presidential Scholarship does more than serve students; it inspires hope. On behalf of President Ava Parker, the entire College and our students, thank you. We are honored to be the institution that awards your scholarship and to call you both friends of Palm Beach State.

We gladly share these reflections with tremendous pride and gratitude.

Warmest regards,

David A. Rutherford Vice President, Advancement CEO, Foundation for Palm Beach State College

Alexis Altman

Pursuing an Associate of Arts Degree with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education

Receiving The James Patterson Presidential Scholarship has been a transformative experience, reshaping both my academic and personal life. This essay explores theprofound impact thisscholarship has had on my journey, highlighting the lessons learned during the past academic year and the implications for my future career.

With the weight of financial concerns lifted, I found myself able to channel my energy and attention into my studies more effectively. This academic empowerment translated into tangible results, reflecting not only in improved grades but also in a deeper understanding of the subjects I engaged with. The scholarship became more than a financial aid program; it became a catalyst for academic excellence.

Navigating the challenges of the academic year, I discovered a reservoir of resilience within myself. Theability to overcome obstacles, whether academic or personal, hasbeen acrucial aspect ofmy growth.Thescholarship served asa support system during moments ofuncertainty, instilling in me a sense of perseverance and adaptability that expands beyond the classroom.

AsI reflect onthe knowledgeandskills acquired during the past academic year,I am acutely aware of their direct relevance to my future career aspirations. The scholarship facilitated my exploration of subjects aligned with my professional goals, equipping me with a strong foundation for the challenges that lie ahead. Concepts learned in classroom are seamlessly applicable to real-world scenarios, making the scholarship a bridge between academia and my envisioned career path.

In conclusion, The James Patterson Presidential Scholarship has been a beacon of support, illuminating my academic journey and shaping my future. From financial liberation to academic empowerment andpersonal growth, its impact extends far beyondthe monetary value.AsIembark on the next chapter of my life, I carry with me not just the knowledge gained but a profound gratitude for the opportunities afforded by this transformative scholarship.

ThristanAvila

Pursuing an Associate ofArts Degree, Education Pathway

Receiving this scholarship has significantly impacted my educational career over the past year. It has not only extended my progress but also alleviated many of my struggles at the college level, which I will elaborate on shortly.

First of all, I want to express my gratitude. I never expected such substantial help as this scholarship to come into my life. While I acknowledge that I am a good student, being chosen for this award truly makes a difference in my academic career, and it is a huge honor toreceive it. As a student with a dream to help society by diving into the educational field, I can tell you this scholarship will make it possible in many ways, particularly from an economic standpoint.

As a Hispanic, I have had man struggles to deal with as a student, but my parents have always been really supportive. This scholarship will be a relief for my parents over the next twocollege terms, as I will not need their financial support during this time. This can be seen as a thank you to my parents for their support. Additionally, the scholarship will help me save for future terms, allowing me to focus on my studies this semester and the one that follows. My plan is totransfer toa four-year university. Tuition costs vary, but I know they will surely be higher. Therefore, I am thankful for this scholarship, as the money I save will be a tremendous help in continuing my education. This scholarship has made me realize that attending university is possible.

Secondly,as a student whohasfaced educational struggles, I have sometimes considered taking a break from school. However, I know that doing so could get me off track and reduce my chances of continuing my career. Scholarships like this one deeply touch my heart and motivate me to move forward in my academic path. I am grateful for this scholarship, not only for the financial support but also for the injection of mental courage it provides. It makes me feel that my efforts are being recognized and rewarded by important people. It makes me realize that I can be seen as somebody who has something great to offer this society and the future.

I have learned many things during my college career as I pursue my goal of becoming a math teacher. My field observations in schools with real teachers and students have been great. These experiences have given me the opportunity tolearn many things about thejob I’ll be performing, from teaching to classroom management.

The skills required by a teacher are not just how to teach, but also include treating studentsfairly, how to deal with diversity, how to keep classroom order, and handling various incidents. These are skills I learned because Iwent tocollege Duetothis scholarship now,I will have theresources later to transfer to FAU and continue to gain new knowledge and experiences.

Apart from skills in the classroom, I have also learned skills in writing, art, and other subjects important for my career. These include structuring an essay, using art as a motivational catalyst, andmany otherskills forwhich Iam grateful.However,Iam especially gratefulformy knowledge in math, asit is thesubject I would like toteach. Increasing my knowledgein thisarea and gaining more practice will help me simplify the subject for students of varying grade levels.

Finally, I want to thank Mr. and Mrs. James Patterson again for making it possible for me to continue thisjourney, andforrecognizing not only my effortsbut also theeffortsof many students like me who are receiving this help. I cannot fully express my gratitudefor this award, but I will ensure that my efforts continue throughout my career and that this scholarship makes a lasting impact on our future society. .

Yailyn Fuentes

Pursuing an Associate of Science Degree with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education

My journey in academics was initially marked by constant financial struggles and the challenges of balancing my hunger for education with life's realities. Coming from a humble family background with limited financial resources, the quest for higher education qualification once seemed like an impractical goal featured by many constraints that threatened to obstruct my long-held academic ambitions. Growing up, joining college to pursue higher education was typically a distant dream. Bearing in mind my family’s financial and economic status, I saw no other alternative but to deliberate on education's affordabilityand weigh it against the overbearing demands of everyday life.

The financial struggle was profound, and the dream of joining college to pursue higher education andactualize my educational goals appeared asavague fantasy. While most of my peers constantly made plans for their transition to higher education, I became fond of deliberating onthe likelihood of even successfully applying for enrollment in colleges, considering the mounting financial challenges. Despite these constraints, my deep interest in Early Childhood Education persistently became a source of guidance and a driving force toward pursuing academic achievement. I attended college workshops, involved myself in volunteer work, andsought many opportunities to acquire practical experience, sparked by the firm belief in education's power to change lives.

The life-changing opportunity unraveled when I received a higher education scholarship. It was Mr. Jefferson, my high school teacher, who informed me about my selection as a recipient of the scholarship. I am truly grateful to The James Patterson Presidential Scholarship for continuously encouraging me to persistently maintain a positive outlook toward life and the feasibility of my academic ambitions. Receiving the scholarship made me feel as though a door that had initially been shut had unexpectedly swung open. The long-existing, overbearing load of financial worry gradually started lifting, and a strong sense of possibility and hope took its space. Thescholarship was not merely a form of financial aid, it was a means that opened wide the path to a future that I now consider within my reach. The scholarship's impact on my life has been far-reaching. It brought along a deep sense of optimism and relief to my family, who resolutely supported my academic ambitions in the face of an overbearing financial struggle.

Thescholarship offered me the means topursue my academic aspirations inhigher education while alleviating the possible stress linked to the accumulation of student debt to finance my education. The newly acquired financial stability enabled me to direct my focus and efforts specifically toward personal development, continuous learning, and academic excellence. With the guidance of accomplished andexperienced faculty members, I haveacquired confidence in pursuing various growth opportunities that extend past the educational landscape, including community awareness

activities, workshops, and internships that directly align with and supplement my academic major in Early Childhood Education.

In conclusion, the scholarship has enabled me to develop an in-depth sense of gratitude and enthusiasm to serve the community. Acknowledging that an individual or group placed their trust in my academic ability sufficiently to invest mainly in education has always been my source of inspiration, encouraging me to strive to attain excellence and make meaningful contributions and impact in the dynamic and complex spectrum of the Early Childhood Education field to ensure equitable access to learning opportunities and skill development for all students.

Kaitlyn Gutierrez-Rivas, ‘24

Associate ofArts Degree with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education

Just as any 18-year-old finally graduating high school, the reality of life hits you like a bus. For starters, when you come from a lowincome family, thetwopaths are either to work or tocontinue school andwork simultaneously. For awhile, I wasthinking ofwhat I should do. I was already attending Palm Beach State as an early admission student, where, thankfully, the expenses were paid. Still, my mind went on and on about what would happen after I graduated and became a college student.I triedtoput thisthought outfora long time until it came time to apply for college and choose classes. The first worry I had, like any other student,washowI would payforit.WhenI received anotetoattend anevent oncampustoreceive ascholarship, thejoyand tearscame downonmy face.The relief I felttohave beenable toreceive this award has been a blessing that wordsmay not be able to show for it, but the tears that I have writing this essay for sure do. Palm Beach State took a bet on me, this scholarship, Mr. and Mrs. Patterson, you took a bet on me. And I promise you won't regret it at all.

My educational experience taught me that "life will give you opportunities, but you must make something out of it," my professor Patrick Teiry said. Just as this scholarship has given me the opportunity to continue my education in Mathematics Teaching Education, I will be able to fulfill my two passions, math and teaching. As I have gone on and completed field observations in classrooms, this is the saying oradvice I give to students whenI havebeen allowed the opportunity to speakto them all. This scholarship hasbeen the prime example that Ihave provided. Scholarship donors will take a bet on you and pay for your education, but you, as the students, must make something out of it; the opportunity that you are given to go to school is something that many long for, but you were chosen, handpicked, and now create a future for yourself. My education has shown me to be grateful that I am even taking these classes and on the verge of graduating with my associate degree; it fills me with gratitude to receive this award.

Asfor my future, this scholarship will help me get tothe point where Isee myself teaching Algebra 1,specifically, ina classroom with minds that needto be filled with knowledgeand wisdom. Many young minds don't know where they're going, and if I can be the roundabout that changes their perspective on education, I will know that I have done my job.As well, I would know that I have completed the dream of an immigrant parent and have created a better future for myself and my family. Asthe dream for any immigrant is for abetter future for their child, andasa first-generation 'almost' graduate, I know that I would have completed it with your help, Mr. and Mrs. Patterson. To receive this award will always be a pivotal moment in my life, and I am grateful to you, Mr. and Mrs. Patterson, for the generosity that you have contributed to my life. Thank you for this opportunity once again. May God bless you and your family for generations to come.

Tonyshea Humphrey

Pursuing an Associate ofArts Degree with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education

First and foremost, the scholarship has provided me with financial support that hasalleviated a significant amount of stress. Asa mother of three,Iam responsible fornot onlymy ownexpenses butalso those of my family. The scholarship has allowed me to focus more on my studies and less on the financial burden. It has provided me with the opportunitytoinvest in myfutureandinthepotentialofa betterfuture for my children.

Moreover, the scholarship has empowered me to pursue my educational goals without compromise. It has given me the confidenceand motivation to excel academically. Knowingthat I am supported by a scholarship has instilled in me a sense of determination and resilience. It has given me the encouragement to take risks and expand my knowledge, knowing that my potential is valued and that my efforts are not only for myself but also for my children.

Through my educationalcourses this past year, I have learned numerous valuable lessons that will undoubtedlybenefit me personally and professionally. One of the most impactful courses for me has been EDF 2085 Intro Diversity for Educators. This course has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse needs, experiences, and perspectives that students bring into the classroom. It has taught me the importance of creating an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students, regardless of their backgrounds.

Through EDF2085, I have learned the importance of having a different approach when working withstudents.The course has emphasized thesignificance of cultural competence, sensitivity, and adaptability as an educator. It has equipped me with tools to understand and address the unique challenges that diverse students may face. It has also helped me develop strategies to foster a supportive and inclusive classroom culture that values and celebrates diversity.

Overall, thescholarship has had aprofound impact onmy life as a motherof three and asa student returning to school. It has provided me with financial relief, enabling me to focus on my studies andinvest in my future.The courses I havetakenhave not only enhancedmy academic knowledge but also shaped my approach to working withyouth as a future educator.These experiences have not only enriched my own life but have also prepared me to make a meaningful differencein the lives of my future students.

Thank you, Mr. & Mrs. James Patterson.

Diana Jensen

PursuinganAssociateofScience Degreewith a Concentration in Early

Childhood Education

I am very thankful to have received the James Patterson Presidential Scholarship. In2020,I decidedtogobacktocollege.I had mysavings and a plan. I started on the Early Childhood Education AS track in 2021. It has been wonderful learning so much about early childhood development, psychology, and of course how to educate children in the most developmentally appropriate way.

In 2022, I got into a romantic relationship that I later found out was not the best one, unfortunately I was naive and a hopeless romantic, I let myself get carried away. Long story short, he emptied out my savings account and put me into debt. It was devastating, and for a while, I was not sure if I would be able to finish my degree, which was what I most wanted todo. My interest in the field never waivered, my financial means just changed. Luckily I have supportive family members who pitched in to get me back on track. This scholarship has made it possible for me to now continue my degree and dedicatemyself to learning more. As an international student, it is limited what kinds of jobs I can have and how much money I can earn to support myself. Luckily, one of the classes is a practicum, in which I am allowed to work part-time in a classroom and get paid for the work. This has helped me stay afloat with living expenses as well as given me furtherinsight and experience in theteaching field

I am truly grateful toreceive this scholarship tokeep my dream of helping the futurebe better for our children. I dream of opening my own preschool some day,where I will lead with excellence and byexample. I will takeeverything I have learned frommy very knowledgeable professors and put it into practice. My preschool will be a place where children thrive and flourish, where they learn through play and their senses, the way it is meant to be, and the way many experts in the early childhood education field know to be true, but unfortunately not enough parents or administrators follow. I want my preschool to be different.I want learning tobe child-led, tohave educated,kind,compassionate teachers who know how to support a child’s growthand learning. I have many aspirations for my future preschool and getting this degree is the first step in eventually reaching that dream.

Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Patterson.for making this scholarship available tome. I take my studies seriously, which is reflected in my 4.0 GPA and winning a Student Excellence Award for Educationlast year. I ameager tolearn andapply whatIlearn in class in thereal world.I appreciate my professors and see them as wise guides leading me to my future in which I will help many children. Thank you for awardingme theJames Patterson Presidential Scholarship. It trulymeans a lot to me.

Breanna Leary, ‘24

Associate ofArts Degree with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education

“Flexibility and knowledge, I have found, are the keys to my success as a teacher.”

TheJames Patterson Presidential Scholarship has been anunexpected, greatly appreciated boon to my educational experience at Palm Beach State College. That Mr. and Mrs. Patterson have given continuous financial support to the education program tells me how much they value education and hope to encourage us college students to become future educators.

Beyond the classroom, every moment I spend at the Turtle River Montessori School’s after-care program is a teaching moment. I adore working with youngsters ages four to six years old as I aspire to become a teacher who makes a positive impact on young minds. As I observe the way each child learns, I carefully organize individual, age-appropriate lesson plans to help each of my youngstudents withtheir beginner’s reading andmath worksheets. Thoughthechildren arealready exhausted by the time they arrive at the after-school program, Iapply techniques I’ve gleaned from my classes to keep them focused; I apportion our time together between homework and play, and snack and rest times.

At 5:15 p.m., as the end of the day’s session approaches, I engage exhausted and hungry preschoolers in the color game asthey wait for their equally exhausted andhungry working parents to pick them up. My job as an assistant teacher enables me to put into practice what I have learned in my education classes, especially reading a classroom’s emotional temperature, and adapting my pre-planned lessons accordingly. Flexibility and knowledge, I have found, are the keys to my success as a teacher.

As the daughter of working-class parents my mother is a sales associate at Saks Fifth Avenue and my father is a case manager for health insurance I joined the workforce at an early age to help pay for my personal expenses. In fact, my babysitting jobs were my informal introduction to teaching. Helping the young children with their homework, I gained experiential experience in the kindergarten through 6th-grade curriculums. As the children grew older, their parents would call me to tutor their children, claiming that their youngsters said I explained their lessons better than their teachers.

Growing up, however,I am not sure I fully appreciated the dedication and hard workmy teachers put into educating me, though I looked up to them, enjoying the lessons and projects they devised to make each class special. I started working with children as a volunteer at my own former preschool, Oceanside Academy, when I was fifteen, and realized I wanted to work with children just as my grandma, my mentor, had. Until my Grandma passed away in August 2023, I spent

every free moment on weekends visiting with her at the MorseLife Memory Care Facility. I sadly watched my bright, vivacious former teacher, Grandma, succumb to dementia.

My jobs at theABCMontessori Schooland the Turtle RiverMontessori School after-care program underscored the effort my own teachers had put into inspiring the next generation of doctors, lawyers, teachers, andpolitical leaders. Thetwo Montessori Schools andUnited Methodist Church four-week Summer Fine Motor Skills Program have helped to prepare me for my future career in teaching. Ascorny as it may sound,my heart warms as I watch young smiling faces look up to me, excited to learn and latching on to my every word.

When I finally arrive home at 6:30 from Turtle River Montessori, I have just enough time to eat dinner and do my own homework, though I do the bulk of my work on weekends. Balancing volunteering, babysitting, and work has become a constant in my life. However, receiving this scholarship has brought a significant change. It means I no longer need to seek additional employment on weekends to supplement my earnings as a teacher's assistant and babysitter.

Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. James Patterson, for making my life a bit easier

Candela Mendez

PursuinganAssociateofArts Degree with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education

I worked hard during my first twosemesters at Palm Beach State College and attended manyevents, thinking I would win my first scholarship. However,when theyannounced thewinners last fall, I didn't win, which made me sad. Even though my emotions were very low, I always saw a light at the end of the tunnel.

International students do not have many options when it comes to scholarships, so I worked hard to win the only one I knew I could possibly win. I did everything they told me I needed to do. I was so confident because my GPA was on point, plus I had been very active in the school clubs, which was also a big requirement. I drove an hour to school each day because of that scholarship. After hearing about all the scholarship winners, I thought there was a mistake. I went and talked to my advisor, Mr. Laborde, about the situation. Hesaid that fewer scholarships were available than anticipated andthat hewas very sorry about it. After that day I called my mom and said how disappointed I was feeling.

I forgot about the idea of getting a scholarship, but I kept up my workas a student. I joined a new club and had a fantastic semester. I do not look at my emails too often; I check my emails every couple ofweeks. Oneday, Iwent andchecked mymail andfound out I hadbeen selected to receive the James Patterson Presidential Scholarship. I screamed sohard and immediately called mymom. The excitement persisted for weeks. Every time I remember it, a smile covers up my whole face. I feel so grateful and lucky for what was indeed a dream come true.

Now we are in 2024, and this is the year that I will be graduating from Palm Beach State College, andI will also begetting a workpermit for ayear towork ata school. Mymajor is Early Childhood Education, and now that I am doing my field observations, I am falling more in love with the career. This month, I found out that I had been awarded the scholarship again.

I wouldlike to thank Mr. andMrs. Patterson. I learned that things always arrive at the perfect time. Sometimes, we think we know whenthat is, but we are always surprised by destiny. I learned that setbacks are a part of life and can make us stronger. I feel more motivated now that I see people recognizing my work. I am looking forward to graduating Palm Beach State College, winning more scholarships, and continuing my education.

Natalie O'Rourke

PursuinganAssociateofArts Degree with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education

“The scholarship facilitated my exploration of subjects aligned with my professional goals, equipping me with a strong foundation for the challenges that lie ahead.”

Receiving The James Patterson Presidential Scholarship has been a transformative experience, reshaping both my academic and personal life.

The scholarship’s financial support has been a beacon of hope, providing much-needed flexibility in covering educational expenses. This newfound financial stability allowed me to focus more on my studies without the constant stress of managing tuition and related costs. Asaresult, the burden of financial constraints has lifted, opening doors to a more immersive educational experience. With the weight of financial concerns lifted, I was able to channel my energy and attention into my studies more effectively. This academic empowerment translated into tangible results, reflecting not only improved grades but also a deeper understanding of my subjects. The scholarship became more than a financial support; it became a catalyst for academic excellence.

The past academic year has been a rich tapestry of learning experiences. From mastering complex subjects to developing crucial time management skills, each lesson has contributed to my holistic growth. The scholarship not only provided financial assistance but also served as a platform for acquiring essential skills, enhancing my ability to navigate the complexities of both academic and professional realms. As I reflect on the knowledge and skills acquired during the past academic year, I am acutely aware of their direct relevance to my future career aspirations. The scholarship facilitated my exploration of subjects aligned with my professional goals, equipping me with a strong foundation for the challenges that lie ahead. Concepts learned in classroom are seamlessly applicable to real-world scenarios, making the scholarship a bridge between academia and my envisioned career path.

The James Patterson Presidential Scholarship has been a beacon of support, illuminating my academic journey andshaping myfuture. From financial liberation to academic empowerment and personal growth, its impact extends far beyondthe monetary value.AsI embark onthe nextchapter of my life, I carry with me not just the knowledge gained but a profound gratitude for the opportunities afforded by this transformative scholarship.

Eliana Perez Cordero Pursuing an Associate ofArts Degree, Education Pathway

Transitioning from high school to college marks an important moment in one's life, a time of exploration, self-discovery, and academic pursuit. For me, this journey has been nothing short of transformative, with my college experience at PBSC shaping my path in ways I never imagined. Central to this journey has been the invaluable support of this scholarship, an opportunity that has allowed me to pursue my passions and aspirations.

At PBSC, I've started a journey of self-discovery, navigating through academic courses to find my true calling. With my experiences here, I have found a passion for understanding and assisting others, particularly within psychology and education. This newfound passion was ignited by my experiences as a bilingual student, where I discovered the unique power of language in showing comfort and communication.

Throughout high school, my fascination with psychology and the workings of the human mind grew exponentially, as did my desire to help younger students with their academic needs, wanting to see them succeed. However, my ability to communicate in Spanish showed me the impact I could have on students from similar backgrounds. Seeing how my bilingualism made communicating with Spanish-speaking students easier confirmed my desire to become a teacher.

Looking back at my experiences, I realized that my journey toward becoming a teacher was not only encouraged by a passion for education but also by a profound sense of empathy and understanding cultivated through shared linguistic and scholarly experiences. This insight underscored the importance of representation and inclusivity within the educational landscape, particularly within the burgeoning Hispanic community.

The scholarship I received has been essential in helping me to continue my educational journey and pursue my dream of becoming an elementary school teacher. Without this financial support, accessing higher education would have been a challenge, closing the doors to countless personal and professional growth opportunities.

As the Hispanic community expands, the need for culturally competent and linguistically diverse educators becomes increasingly essential. With my scholarship-funded education and personal experiences, I am committed to empowering and advocating for Hispanic students, ensuring they receive the support and representation they deserve in the classroom and beyond.

In essence, my college experience and educational aspirations are intertwined with the generosity of the scholarship I received. It has not only provided me with the means to pursue my dreams but has also put within me a deep sense of gratitude and responsibility to give back to my community and inspire future generations of students. Indeed, the impact of this scholarship extends far beyond financial assistance, serving as a trigger for personal and societal transformation. Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Patterson.

Marnie Reyes

Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education

When I first received the James Patterson Scholarship, I thought it was a fluke. To be completely honest I thought it was a receipt for paying my tuition or part of my “high school waiver”. So, as one confused student does, I took it to school to make sure I wasn’t imagining things and let’s just say the ladywas clearly concerned as to why I was so confused about what a scholarship does.

See when I first started at PBSC, I was told that it didn’t matter how good my grades were, I was probably never going to receive a scholarship; because I’m an “out of state student”. I have been in the U.S since I was 10, I have been dreaming of scholarships since I was old enough to understand what they do. The James Patterson scholarship returned that dream to me, the idea that sometimes-hard work does pay off. That sometimes we do catch a break.

Before I gotthe scholarship, Iwas workingup to40+ hours aweekwhile being a full-time student. How?All I can say is that I truly hope it was a once in a lifetime experience. I was barely making enough to save for college and help at home. I had switched my major because I couldn’t afford to pursue an education past my AA.I started to consider putting off college for a few years until I could find a time where I wasn’t constantly stressed. I knew I couldn’t mentally handle the stress of going to work and coming home knowing I had a paper due or a long reading assignment any longer.

My mental health was declining, I felt so guilty, and I was so mad at myself for not being able to do more not only for myself but for my family. I felt that even if putting off college for a little while would be the right decision for me, I knew I would disappoint a lot of people. I have great parents, parents whowerealways involved in myschoolwork, made sure Ihad everything I needed to succeed. However,there are certain things that even my parents could not help me with. Sadly, paying for college was one of them.

After opening the letter, I decided to continue my education and pursue a bachelor's in human services, something I love. Words cannot express the stress that has beenlifted from my shoulders. I am now able to workless hours and focus more on my schoolwork, I managed to graduate early thanks to this scholarship because I was able to pay for my classes with the money and some money out of pocket. My family is also eternally grateful, because I will now be the first of my family to not only get anAA but also pursue a Bachelors.

I am now getting my bachelor's in human services. Which is the major that I originally intended to pursue. I have learned the different types of therapists and psychiatrists. I have chosen to focus my major on young adult development, thanks to what I’ve learned. I see that there’s a big need for therapists and counselors to help our youth. I would love to create a counseling group for college students, specifically those who are transitioning from high school to college. I think it

would be a great help for the community and colleges, to hopefully provide the students with healthy coping skills to manage the stress of this big transition; and help them find resources/solutions. If I’m not able to create a counseling group for college students, I would love to take what I have learned about coping strategies to the military. In my classes I have had the pleasure to work with veterans and they often discuss how there’s a lack of resources for those who served. This cause is very dear to me because my cousin is going to enlist, and I would love for her and the friends she’s enlisting with to have the help that they may require. Thanks to this scholarship I have gained my passion for school again, I no longer see school as a means to an end,but I gowith apurpose. I amnow motivated tocontinue myeducation evenfurther and pursue my master's in psychology after my time at PBSC.

So, thank you for returning to my inner little girl her dream to make her family proud and become someone who makes a difference.

Yaneshia Thompson

Pursuing an Associate ofArts Degree with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education

Before I graduated high school in 2022, I was awarded a Navy scholarship because of my hard work, leadership, dedication,and the support my teachers had for me throughout my time at school. I was one of only six studentsat my school who had ever been nominated for something so significant. But before I was officially awarded the scholarship, I had toattend basicNavytraining in Chicago It wasfull of blood, sweat, and tears, but I didn’t allow those things to stop me from completing the training I was sent there to do For that, I was given the official “Congratulations” letter informing me that I got it. With the scholarship, I attended Tuskegee University in Alabama. However, aftera couple of months, I realized that my passion wasn’t topursue a career in themilitary but todosomething else, and I left the university

Flashing back to my first year attendingPBSC,I didn’t qualify for financial aid, which ultimately caused metohavetopay formy booksandclasses outofpocket.I didn’thavemuch. Iwasworking a part-time job with an okay paycheck, but I had other bills too. I was on the verge of getting all my classes droppedduetonon-payment, andI just felt like giving up. However,I’vealwaystaught myself to 'Never Give Up' because of the dedication I have when it comes to my education.

I made thedecision to reach out and ask forhelp, and by doingthat, a miracle happened.My final payments were paid off,which allowed me to finish my first year of college last year without any worries or concerns. I can proudly say that in my second year, I am still thriving and on my way to getting my degree. This scholarship has impacted my life because, as the next two terms are approaching, I don’t have to stress or worry about any finances, all thanks toMr. and Mrs. James Patterson, who I can’t thank enough!!

Leaving one school and starting the next wasn’t an easy transition for me, but I got through it. Being on the verge of losing my education because of my financial situation, and then being blessed with help to maintain my educational journey, has been amazing.

Looking backat my first semester at PBSC,I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted tostudy.But once I delved deeperand explored various academic career paths, I madethe decision topursue my AS degreein Early Childhood Education. The reason for this decision is my desire to become either a preschool or kindergarten teacher, due to my passion and love for working with kids.

The teachers I have encountered throughout my journey have given me an extra boost of confidenceand confirmation that I chose the correct career path one that I know I will love and cherish to the fullest. This confidence will carry into my future career because as I enter these final two terms of my college journey, I will be able to continue and finish strong. It’s great to know that all the hard work I have put in throughout my time in school is being recognized and

has given me wonderful opportunities like this one. I cannot wait to start teaching and furthering my career.

To Mr. and Mrs. James Patterson, thank you so much for your wonderful generosity towards my education, because you have absolutely changed my life forever!!

a m e s P a t t e r s o n

Presidential Scholars

The education we give our kids today determines our economy tomorrow.

James Patterson

PALM BEACH STATE COLLEGE

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