Adrienne’s long term goal is to become a cosmetic dermatologist. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science degree in Pre-Medicine Nutrition at NC Agriculture & Technical State University. She plans to attend an osteopathic medical school after completing her undergraduate education.

Adrienne’s current work in pediatric certification has increased her knowledge of medical terminology. She has also learned about licensure requirements, continuous evaluation, and certification requirements expected throughout all medical specialties and feels the insights gained will help her achieve her goals.

When she was 20 years old, Adrienne became a single parent. She had graduated high school with honors, was newly engaged and enrolled in college. Everything changed once she was pregnant. Scared and alone with nowhere to turn and no support system, she put her education on hold. After several years of working a dead end job, Adrienne was laid off and went back to school. Financial aid wasn’t enough to cover rent, daycare, utilities, food, and books, and Adrienne once again put her education on hold until her daughter was older and she could better manage.

Adrienne believes this award will put her one step closer to becoming someone her daughter, now 14 years old, can be proud of. She shares, “This award would make the difference between requiring my daughter to do something that I haven’t completed myself and being the example I’d like her to strive to be.