I am a 2023 graduate of George Washington Carver High School, and I am currently a junior at Alabama State University, majoring in interdisciplinary studies with minors in Psychology and Sustainability and Community.
I want to talk about the true impact that Birmingham Promise has had on my life as a student.
As an independent student who takes care of everything on my own, college has not always been easy financially. Even though I work hard, there are still times when I am left with balances or unexpected expenses. Birmingham Promise has truly helped lift that weight off of me throughout my college journey. Because of this program, I have been able to continue my education with support, encouragement, and opportunities that have changed my life.
What means the most to me is that Birmingham Promise is more than just a scholarship program. They genuinely care about their students as people. Throughout my time in the program, I have received support in so many different ways, from scholarship opportunities to personal encouragement during difficult moments.
One experience that has always stayed with me was when Mrs. Brittany McClure, who is no longer with Birmingham Promise, personally took me to H&M to help me get business attire for professional opportunities. At the time, I did not have the clothing I needed to step confidently into professional spaces. To this day, I still wear those outfits, and every time I put them on, I am reminded of how much support and belief Birmingham Promise poured into me.
I have also been blessed to receive additional opportunities through the program, including the HBCU Spring Scholarship, which came from the hard work and community service I have continued doing both within Birmingham Promise and on my own. That support reminded me that my efforts do not go unnoticed and that giving back to the community truly matters.
I also want to recognize my success coach, Mr. Glenn, for constantly encouraging and motivating students like me to keep pushing forward. One thing I truly appreciate is how he, along with Birmingham Promise as a whole, makes sure to highlight and bring awareness to the accomplishments of their students. Whether it is academics, internships, leadership, community service, or personal growth, they make students feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Having people who genuinely recognize your hard work and want to see you succeed makes a huge difference, especially during moments when college can feel overwhelming.
In addition to being a scholar, I had the amazing opportunity to become the first intern to work in the downtown Birmingham Promise office. Going into that experience, I was nervous because I did not fully know what to expect in a professional corporate environment. But through that internship, I gained so much confidence in myself.
I learned how to manage my time, balance multiple tasks, communicate professionally, and adapt quickly in fast-paced environments. I worked with student data systems, communicated with students daily, helped resolve issues, and learned the behind-the-scenes operations that help programs like Birmingham Promise continue running successfully.
Most importantly, this internship helped me realize that I belong in those spaces. It helped me build confidence, meaningful connections, and professional skills that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
As I prepare to enter my senior year of college, I can honestly say Birmingham Promise has played a huge role in my journey and my success. This program has invested not only in my education but also in me as a person.
To Birmingham Promise, thank you for believing in students like me, supporting us beyond the classroom, and creating opportunities that truly change lives.
