From Scholar to College Graduate: Taleah’s Achieve Atlanta Journey
Achieve Atlanta Scholar Experience
Achieve Atlanta provided me with the opportunity to attend college without the financial burden often associated with higher education. This allowed me to fully immerse myself in my academic studies and pursue extracurricular activities without worrying about how to pay for tuition, textbooks, or living expenses. And as a result, I became the first person in my family to graduate college—with minimal student debt and Magna Cum Laude honors.
During my time at Georgia State University I was more than just a student. In addition to my studies, I took on leadership roles in student organizations, worked multiple jobs, volunteered, and remained actively involved on campus.
The Public Relations Student Society of America played a crucial role in broadening my professional network and connecting me with like-minded individuals in the industry. Through this organization, I was able to attend conferences and events that gave me the chance to learn from experts in the field and connect with peers from across the country.
Becoming a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. during my senior year provided a sense of community and sisterhood that has been a constant support system in my personal and professional life.
Interning at Achieve Atlanta in the Marketing and Communications department, I have had the opportunity to support various projects such as social media management, content creation, and event planning. I have been exposed to the nonprofit sector and have learned about the important work Achieve Atlanta does in supporting students’ education and career pathways. The internship helped me gain professional skills, including communication, teamwork, and time management. Lastly, through this internship I have had the opportunity to meet and learn from new people.
As an Achieve Atlanta Scholar and 2023 college graduate, I can attest to Achieve Atlanta’s effectiveness in providing support and resources to achieve academic success. Not only did this scholarship provide me with the financial support that I needed to attend college, but it also showed me that there are people in this world who believe in me and my potential. Through Achieve Atlanta, I was provided with a support system of mentors, advisors, and fellow Scholars who encouraged and motivated me to achieve my goals. Without the financial and emotional support offered by this organization, my journey toward obtaining a higher education would have been much more challenging. I am grateful for the opportunities afforded to me as an Achieve Atlanta Scholar.
Four Pieces of Advice for Incoming Scholars
2023 Achieve Atlanta Scholars, I was once in your place and I want to offer you four quick pieces of advice to help you make the most of the program’s resources.
- Attend workshops and events at your college
- Build your network while in college
- Seek help when you need it
- Stay committed to your college journey even when you face challenges
I want to wish you all the best of luck as you start your college journey. I know it can be a bit overwhelming at first, but trust me, it’s worth it. Your future is bright, and Achieve Atlanta is here to help you shine!
Authored by
Achieve Atlanta
We’re working every day to ensure that more of our students have access to college and succeed once they get there.
