My Personal Journey: A Passion for Learning & Storytelling
As a child, I was on the fast track to learning, fortunate to have an amazing teacher who nurtured my curiosity and creativity. I spent my days creating stop-motion and animated films, which sparked my passion for storytelling, leadership, and lifelong learning. My goal was always to attend college right away, but life delivered unexpected twists and turns.
I arrived at UCLA during a tumultuous time, filled with loss, but I was determined to finish what I started. Eventually, I took some time off, and when I returned as a single mother, I discovered that my perspective had completely shifted. Suddenly, I had a stronger grasp of the material, I confidently met with professors during office hours, and I was unafraid to challenge research and opinions. My triumphant return to college showed me that education isn’t just about getting a degree—it’s about growth, resilience, and transformation.
This realization continues to fuel my passion for supporting adult learners, especially those who are rebuilding, reinventing, or reigniting their dreams.
What Led Me to a Career in Education
I consider myself a lifelong learner, and that passion led me to earn a Master’s in Instructional Design & Technology. At the time, it was a new online program, and I found that by combining my life experiences with the research and assignments, I achieved a deeper understanding of the material. Later, I realized that this approach aligns with constructivist learning in adult education—a field that now shapes how I guide students in their own journeys.
As an Enrollment Counselor at LAPU, I see myself in many of the students I support. This role gives me the opportunity to give back to a community of individuals who, like me, want to accomplish long-held goals or reinvent themselves.
What I Love Most About Working in Education
One of the most fulfilling aspects of working in education is the ability to build on real-life experiences that matter. When I connect with students, it comes from a genuine interest in where they are, and most importantly, where they want to go.
Their history is a story being written every day, and I want to help them see that their past experiences, struggles, and victories all have meaning. I encourage them to embrace learning as a way to create new opportunities for themselves—not just academically, but in every part of their lives.
My Advice for Students Striving for Success
“Your past does not define your ability to succeed—persist.
Whether a student was once an A-student or struggled to pass, the most important thing is that they still have the desire to learn. That desire is powerful and is proof of their resilience.
For students wondering if they belong in college, I remind them:
- Your life and work experiences matter.
- You deserve that next job, promotion, or opportunity.
- Education is a fresh start—it’s about who you are today, not just who you were in the past.
This is their opportunity to build upon the knowledge they already have and to step into their full potential.
How My Identity & Heritage Influence My Approach to Leadership & Education
As an African American woman, I see education as a stepping stone to personal mastery and excellence. My grandfather was a sharecropper, and his story reminds me that hard work builds character, and faith with action yields results.
I stand on the shoulders of giants—people who didn’t have the opportunities I have, yet they paved the way for me. Their strength fuels my passion for entrepreneurship, education, and resilience.
I am motivated by the sounds of good music, the smell of soulful food, and the deep-rooted joy and perseverance within my heritage. Every aspect of my identity, my history, and my family’s sacrifices reminds me to uplift others—to be a bridge for those who, like me, are striving for something greater.
My favorite scripture is Jeremiah 29:11:
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
What Black History Month Means to Me
My roots trace back to Alabama where my ancestors took part in The Great Migration, seeking new opportunities and a bright future.
Growing up, I was surrounded by family, a variety of friends, soulful music, home cooked meals and spirit of togetherness. These gatherings were about more than soul food and music; they were a celebration of life.
For me, Black History is not just a month—it is 24/7, 365. It is a continuous celebration of triumph, perseverance, and the creation of spaces where future generations can thrive.
It is a reminder of where we’ve come from, the legacy we carry, and the responsibility we have to uplift others. It is the stories of sacrifice, resilience, and joy that shape who we are today.
In my work, I honor Black History by empowering students, amplifying voices, and reminding them that their journey—no matter how winding—is valid, meaningful, and filled with potential.