Zion is a first-generation college student who is the primary provider of her household of 4 including her husband, their 1-month-old son, her 11-year-old brother, and herself. She recently returned to work as a customer service representative for an HVAC company. This will enable her to move her family out of her parents’ home. Zion began her college journey at Guilford College where she earned a 4.3 GPA. She has resumed her studies at Arizona State University. Zion plans to graduate in 2028 with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.
Zion’s immediate goal is to become a Behavioral Analysis Technician so she can gain hands-on experience with children with autism while attending school part time. This role will strengthen her skills in communication and behavioral analysis and help prepare her to apply to the FBI before the cut off age of 34. After completing her bachelor’s degree, Zion plans to pursue a master’s degree to further advance her career.
She hopes to use this award to pay down her student loan debt from Guilford College, easing the financial strain on her young family. Despite personal and family challenges, Zion remains committed to building a stable future and pursuing a career dedicated to service, and justice.