Jeyda Cole

Tell us about you and your experience at Parkside.  

I am a mentor through the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs Always Reaching Upward program. I am a business major. I chose this major because I am starting two businesses and want to make sure I am running them to my best ability. There is always room to grow and learn. I chose Parkside because I admire the community and diversity they offer. It is an extremely welcoming environment and the people I work with have become family. Sometimes when I’m unable to find a babysitter, I bring my son to school/work with me. Everyone is so kind and helps take care of him when I need it. Parkside offered the support system I needed to get my degree.

What impact has your scholarship had on you?

As a twenty-three year old single mom who is paying her way through college, this scholarship has helped me reach my goal of making it through my entire college career without any student loans or debt. I am extremely grateful that Parkside offers financial aid that made that a possibility.

What is a specific goal that felt "out of reach" last year but feels achievable today because of the scholarship you received?

Majority of students graduate college with a large amount of debt to pay off post-graduation. I was in severe debt prior to starting at Parkside. I originally attended a community college and dropped out due to financial struggles while pregnant. Parkside offered grants and scholarships that got me to where I am today.

Thank you to the donors who make these scholarships possible through the UW-Parkside Foundation. Your support helps our students focus on their studies and reach their full potential. To learn more about how you can make a difference, visit uwp.edu/giving.