Welcome to Scholars Spotlight that features current recipients of NE State Foundation scholarships. Meet Melony LaRue who holds the K. Newton Raff Endowed Scholarship.
What factors helped you make the decision to attend NE State?
I heard about the TN Reconnect, and it gave me the opportunity to work towards finishing my degree. I believe that Northeast State is small enough that I will not be lost on the campus but large enough to offer a variety of classes and programs of study to discover what courses I would be interested in taking. I am so thankful for the people at Northeast State that were welcoming and helped me to complete my enrollment and decide on my program of study. It has meant the world to have someone take the time to guide me through that process. Times have changed a lot since I attended classes over twenty years ago.
How have you benefitted from your NE State scholarship?
As a recipient of TN Reconnect and the K. Newton Raff Endowed scholarships, I feel that I have been motivated to do my best. I feel that I have been given a gift to go to college, and I will not fail. Being chosen to receive the scholarship feels like I have someone that believes in me and my efforts to do my very best.
Any advice on how to succeed in college?
My advice would be to focus on thinking of your college education as an investment. It is an investment in yourself, and the more time and effort put into your studies will bring greater opportunities and success. Also, challenge yourself. Don’t take the easiest classes which will limit your potential. Reach for the stars and take on new challenges to discover your own path. Don’t settle for less than what you deserve, and do not be afraid to change your course if you discover that you want to try something else. My work schedule limits my ability to be in a classroom during daytime hours, and I have enrolled in a variety of courses that I have enjoyed learning about.
What do you like best about Northeast State?
The people at Northeast State really care about my learning experiences, and I do feel like I belong. As an adult and more mature learner, I was intimidated to return to the classroom. It’s not easy to be old enough to be the mom of many of my classmates, and I was worried about keeping up. I felt a little overwhelmed at first, but I quickly learned how to maneuver through the school website and D2L. I have learned that it is better to ask questions rather than make assumptions.
What superpower do you wish you had?
I would love to be able to fly. Most of my family live in Georgia and Alabama, and I could visit them more than I do now. Also, it would be nice to fly down to the Caribbean to get warm during the winter months after a long day in the office.
Congratulations. You have worked hard. Well deserved!
Yay! Melongy is amazing and works so hard. Well done!