The First Word
An NLu education is the key to a better life By Johnnie Gaskew ’13
as they assist me in accomplishing my educational goals. My family and I are being given a chance for a much better quality of life – a new beginning, because of their donations. I am so grateful to have been a recipient of their gift.
One of my proudest moments was June 22, 2013, when I graduated from National Louis University with a bachelor’s in applied behavioral sciences. Walking across the stage and receiving my diploma was such an honor. I realized that I was the first college graduate of my siblings. It was the most memorable occasion as my two daughters, Ashley (23) and Alexis (20), enthusiastically cheered me on. Prior to graduation, I did extensive research on deciding what graduate institution to attend and decided that I would remain at NLU to pursue a Master’s in Written Communication (MSWC). My reasons for enrolling in the MSWC program are two- fold, as I want to fulfill my desire for professional and personal growth and enhance my opportunities for much better employment. I am very passionate about writing, and I want to hone in on my writing skills. By mastering my courses in the MSWC program, I strongly believe that I will be in a much better position to obtain the knowledge I need to seek a career in writing. Being a successful student at NLU and taking advantage of its resources is my new beginning. It is also a new beginning for my family because it offers hope and has the potential to open doors for unlimited possibilities for employment. The MSWC program is vital in helping me launch my professional writing career while providing me with the skills I need to teach freshman college English until my writing career can financially sustain my household.
I close with a poem that I wrote in 2005 titled “Starting Over.”
Johnnie Gaskew received her bachelor’s degree last June and is now pursuing her master’s at NLU.
Starting Over It’s not the end, it’s a new beginning That affords us the opportunity to correct mistakes Make wiser decisions, and make better choices About our lives, our relationships, and our careers. Wounded and somewhat reluctant to pursue the unknown We surrender to negative situations We accept demeaning circumstances And become bitter as we allow life to pass us by
Becoming gainfully employed is my number one priority, as my home went into foreclosure because of periods of unemployment and now underemployment. To acquire skills that will assist me to secure employment is of utmost importance to me and my family, and NLU is affording me that opportunity. Once I complete this program, I will pursue a Ph.D. in writing. I know such an undertaking will take hard- work; however, I grew up on a farm. My parents taught me the value of hard work and the endless prospects of acquiring a good education. I was privileged to take part in NLU’s “Who Gets a Lift From Your Gift” campaign (see page 5). This allowed me to meet NLU staff and gave me a chance to share my story. It also gave me an opportunity to personally thank donors who financially support NLU students. Because of their monetary contributions, I can spend more time focusing on my academics and less time thinking about how I am going to pay for tuition and textbooks. Their donations are genuinely appreciated
Yet, hindsight has revealed that changes are needed. Remove the crutches that are paralyzing Let go of fear, be a risk taker Embrace every window of opportunity It’s never too late to start over It’s never too late to pursue your dreams. Be patient and allow yourself to evolve Start over Enjoy your new beginning.
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