For Erienne Hamilton, a 2022 recipient of the Opportunity Rising Scholarship, pursuing a career that allows her to make a positive impact on the lives of others was an obvious choice. Erienne is currently a freshman at Midwestern State University, studying to become a radiologist technician, thanks to the advice of a career counselor who helped her navigate the major selection process and find the best fit for her.
Erienne knew she wanted to study something that would allow her to “be in the health field and help people,” and she has found her passion in radiology – in fact, she’s already looking for summer internships to get her foot in the door. Finding a meaningful career path that focused on serving and uplifting others became important to Erienne after her experience with bullying following her family’s move from California to Texas. “It was a lonely year,” she says. “However, I became more adaptable and stronger from those experiences.”
Though she faced challenges during her high school years, Erienne didn’t let that stop her from finding ways to get involved with her community and school. “I was involved in many community service activities, especially during my freshman and senior years. I even joined the band as a majorette for a short period and became an ambassador for the student council,” she shares. Erienne was also a member of the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, or FCCLA, an organization that helps students address tough issues like career preparation, peer pressure, sustainability, family relationships and more through family and consumer sciences.
When Erienne was preparing for the next step in her educational journey, Opportunity Rising’s Chyrel Roseborough, the foundation’s Education Programs and Development Coordinator, reached out to tell her about scholarship opportunities. “I learned about the scholarship from a wonderful woman that’s known as Ms. Roseborough,” she shares. “I loved the message of Opportunity Rising.”
As Erienne looks forward to her sophomore semester, she’s grateful for the scholarship that allowed her to further her education without needing to take out student loans. “Thank you for the opportunity you gave me and for honoring my efforts. It has gotten me one step closer to walking on a stage for my degree.”
For any students interested in applying for the Opportunity Rising Scholarship, Erienne has one message: “Don’t let anyone choose a path for you. If you want to go forward, it can only be you who takes those steps. So, hold your head high and know that if you fall, someone will notice and be there for you when you pick yourself up.”
Students living in DHA-supported housing that plan to attend college classes in the upcoming fall semester are qualified to apply for the Opportunity Rising Scholarship.
View full scholarship details below.
