Spring 2023 Scholarship Super Stars
This Spring’s Super Stars are amazingly focused on earning their college degrees and making better lives for themselves than they’ve known. Please meet the folks who have earned scholarships from the 431 Exchange this Spring!
William Monroe
William Monroe, a 22-year-old, has entered LSU Alexandria for his Bachelor's degree, his major field of study in Computer Science. He is working 20 hours a week now and plans to continue until he graduates. As William puts it, his family situation made him courageous in the face of adversity “and taught me to be resourceful and determined in the face of limited opportunities and financial struggles. It has also made me eager to make a difference, not just in my own life, but in the lives of others who may be facing similar challenges.”
Eager to learn and grow, William shared with us that he is drawn to the Computer Science Program because of the challenge and excitement of tackling complex problems and finding innovative solutions. He is particularly interested in the program’s emphasis on hands-on, practical, experience that builds his problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
How will William put his degree and experience to good use? “By using it to develop a career in software development or computer systems. I am interested in using my knowledge and skills to help others, by providing technology education and training. This field is in high demand and it’s a great chance for me to grow and make a meaningful impact in society.”
Cameron Guzzetta
Cameron Guzzetta, 20, inspired us saying he is, “fueled by the passion to help others using his skills and knowledge to bring comfort and support to those who need it most. My determination,” Cameron said, “is to be the best healthcare professional I can be. I am ready to be a shining light for patients and their families, bringing hope to even the toughest situations.”
And he’s on his way! Cameron is enrolled in Louisiana Tech University, with his major field of study in Chemistry and his following degree in Pre-Med Chemistry. Cameron chose his path because, as he put it, “I have a real passion for this challenging and rewarding field. I find it fascinating to dive into the complexities of chemical reactions and processes, and I’m inspired by the thought of using this knowledge to better understand the human body and help people in need.”
Cameron’s path in Chemistry and Pre-Med Chemistry is clear. He already has a 3.656 GPA. We also found him a particularly appreciative young man. He said he connected strongly with the 431 Exchange for, “promoting social justice and empowering individuals to achieve their dreams.”
Carrie Driver
Carrie Driver is another of this Spring’s Super Star Scholarship Winners. She is enrolled in LSU Alexandria for her Bachelor’s Degree, majoring in Healthcare Administration. She anticipates graduating in May of 2024.
At the age of 39, Carrie says she is finally in a position to finish her Bachelor’s degree, 8 years after receiving her Associate’s Degree! It is her children who inspire her and Carrie will use her program to be able to provide them with a better life.
Carrie chose LSU because it offers a 100% online curriculum; an enormous help to a mother taking care of her family and delving into the Healthcare Administration Program and Bachelor’s Degree! In addition, she is looking forward to using her degree to find employment in the healthcare field and, with time, move into the worlds of Information Systems and, ultimately, Business Analytics.
Mia Martin
Meet Mia Martin, who graduated from the Fountainebleau High School, in Mandeville, Louisiana last year. Mia is enrolled in Southeastern Louisiana University to major in Criminal Justice, which she anticipates graduating from in May of 2026. She already has a GPA of 4.0.
“I am driven,” Mia says, “by endless questions and a longing for knowledge. My curiosity always seems to pull me in directions I would have never thought to go and helps me find a greater sense of understanding and satisfaction. In a world where we are conditioned to accept things at face value, courageously asking questions helps me break down barriers that withhold information and relationships.” When asked what Southeastern’s Criminal Justice Program offered her future, Mia said, “I was immediately convinced that it would put me on the right path to become what I have dreamt about since middle school: an FBI agent.”
Mia is deeply aware of, and encouraged by, the importance education has to opening up future opportunities for herself and others. And she says the 431 Exchange’s support of those going after educational programs is both inspiring and motivating!
The 431 Exchanges’ Spring 2023 Super Stars are individuals who have each dreamed of professions they love. The 431 Exchange is delighted to help those committing themselves to an education that will open doors to a satisfying career that positively impacts others.