Nia: Motivated to Make a Difference
Meet future physician Nia, a senior at Billy Ryan High School who aspires to make a difference and a living helping others. Nia is an active participant in Communities In Schools® of North Texas' (CISNT) college and career readiness group, where she receives support and guidance as she prepares for life after high school.
With graduation on the horizon and acceptance into several colleges and universities, she is poised to pursue her dream of becoming a registered nurse and doctor of obstetrics and gynecology.
“My older brother didn’t know what he wanted to do for school at first. He was in the LPN program, and now he’s going back for the RN program,” said Nia, who plans to attend Texas Southern University. “I looked up to him, and I felt like if he enjoys it and can do it, I can do it too.”
Nia attributes much of her success and motivation to the unwavering support and guidance of CISNT Site Coordinator Olumide Aje, whose mentorship has been instrumental in keeping her on track since her first year of high school.
“Her motivation wasn’t there at first. She seemed to have senioritis during her freshman year,” joked Olumide, also known to students as Mr. O. “From that point on, the motivation has gotten better. Sometimes she needs a refresher to just get it done. I tell her and all students, ‘show up, turn in all of your assignments, talk to your teachers, and get it done.’”
Communities In Schools has been like a compass for Nia, guiding her through the complexities and challenges of high school and offering her opportunities to explore her passions and prepare for the future. Through the college and career readiness group, Nia has gone on two college tours and received help with the admissions process and applying for scholarships.
I’ve actually been in CIS since middle school. I was having a bad day and my friend introduced me to the program. I love the group sessions and you get to talk to people going through what you’re going through.
As she prepares to embark on this new adventure, Nia is hopeful. In addition to pursuing nursing and medical degrees, Nia plans to join the National Guard after her freshman year of college.
“I want to have new experiences while being productive at the same time,” she said.
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