Tara M.

2009 Scholarships.com Resolve To Evolve Scholarship Winner

Scholarships.com: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Tara M: Within the next 10 years I would like to be seen as an expert in the field of English language and literacy acquisition, having published works on effective strategies for teaching linguistically diverse students. In addition, I would like to work as a professor in higher education, teaching pre-service teachers.

SDC: How do you think a college education will help you get there and what would you say to students about the importance of a college education?

TM: Working on my PhD at the University of Denver will help me to attain the knowledge necessary to continue to conduct educational research. A college education is infinitely important. I have experienced more opportunities upon the completion of each of my degrees and certifications.

SDC: Winning a scholarship means different things to different students. What does your scholarship mean to you, or why do you feel it is a significant accomplishment?

TM: I am grateful that the Resolve to Evolve committee selected me as a scholarship recipient. The award is significant not only because it will aid me in paying for school but also because my essay topic is something I am very passionate about. Scholarships.com is a great service for finding financial aid. As a busy professional and a full-time doctoral student it is hard to find time to search out financial aid, and Scholarships.com has proven to be an invaluable resource because it searches for awards that are appropriate for me, while weeding out those that are not.

SDC: Where do you go to school, and why do you attend that school?

TM: I attend the University of Denver. I have had a great experience there so far and highly recommend it. I chose the school because the doctoral program caters to adult students who work full time without compromising educational rigor. I completed my MA at the University of Colorado at Denver and my BA at the University of Redlands in Southern California.

SDC: What do you think about college life so far?

TM: Life as a graduate student is very different from life as an undergraduate. My program at the University of Denver follows a cohort model, which fosters relationships among classmates and creates a built-in support system that many graduate programs lack. It is a great model for graduate students who often live off campus and have careers outside of school.

SDC: What advice would you give to the class of seniors who are now making decisions about their college careers?

TM: Make the most of every opportunity offered. Maximize your undergraduate experience by participating in campus organizations and work opportunities in addition to studying hard. I have very fond memories of my time as an undergraduate student at the University of Redlands. The bonds that tie me back to the university as an alumna are due to the relationships I made through campus organizations. Take the time to get involved in addition to putting forth effort in class.