An Amazing Opportunity

     I have worried about the costs of college since around my freshman year. My family doesn't have a whole lot of disposable income, and even though I hold a part time job at Target, it sure didn't pay enough for Iowa State University tuition. I knew I would have to apply for scholarships, but when the time came to do that, I had no idea where to start. There were so many available, and it was a bit overwhelming.
     I had been applying for various scholarships for months when a recent graduate came back to talk to the senior classes about her first year experience at Iowa State. I was very interested in what she had to say because I knew that I would be attending Iowa State that coming fall. My interest spiked even more when she mentioned a scholarship that Iowa State had to offer. She had been a recipient of the Christina Hixson Award, and as soon as she explained it, I knew that I needed to apply for it. I talked to my guidance counselor, and submitted the application as soon as possible.
     Without this award, I would have struggled to attend Iowa State. This award has meant so much to my family and myself. I will be the first one in my immediate family to graduate with a four year degree, and I know that without Christina Hixson's generosity, that would not have been possible. This scholarship has opened so many doors of opportunity for me, and I am forever grateful.