Motivated leader

Akeirah Woodard '19


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As an incoming freshman, Akeirah Woodard has taken the initiative to become a member of the Phonathon team in order to strengthen her communication skills. Akeirah aspires to own a successful business in her future and plans to effectively use her four years at MCLA to pursue this goal. She describes herself as "outspoken, ambitious and partially adventurous" which, combined with a liberal arts education, bodes well for her future.

Akeirah embraces the aspect of a liberal arts education that gives students the option to think for themselves and relishes the opportunities, such as the option to participate as a member of the Phonathon team, that MCLA provides for students.

In her opinion, MCLA stands out because of its exceptional faculty and students, praising staff dedication to students and peers who "encourage you to think just as deep as the teacher does". She values the College's ability to help encourage growth by compelling students to challenge themselves and hopes to expand her horizons. 

Phonathon was a natural choice for a business program major as it "provides a glimpse into the real world" and she compares the Phonathon program to a possible business environment in her future, which is why she appreciates the experience of talking with alumni. 

She believes that "the Phonathon program stands to represent the voice of the student body and helps them connect to those who came before them", and feels pleased to be involved with a program that will benefit so many students through the goal of increasing student scholarship aid resources at the College.

During her time at MCLA, Shadea has fully embraced the many opportunities available to her, participating in theatre, the WJJW Radio Station, and Dance Company. This semester, Shadea is embarking on what may be “one of the most rewarding experiences of her life,” studying abroad at the University of the Virgin Islands in St. Thomas. While there she will be taking classes in English, Communications, and Theatre, auditioning for their dance team, and exploring opportunities with the University’s radio station. Shadea’s study abroad experience was made possible through the National Student Exchange Program and was funded by applying her financial aid awards from MCLA. 
 
Shadea is just one example of the impact financial aid makes. Did you know that 46% percent of all MCLA students were eligible for Federal Pell Grants last year and that 90% of all MCLA students applied for financial aid? Due to this increasingly pressing need, this year the College has introduced a special scholarship initiative to help increase funds available to our students and their families. The need is greater now than ever before. When you give to the Alumni Fund, you are making it possible for MCLA’s students, like Shadea, to begin and complete their journey; allowing them to fulfill their dreams and discover their passions. 

 

 

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