COLUMBUS, Miss. (CMSD) - More than two dozen Columbus High School dual enrolled, first-generation college students are recognized for their hard work.
“It’s a great honor for me. I’m the first to go for it (a bachelor's degree). I give it my best, even when it gets hard,” said CHS Senior Ivyana Hines.
Mississippi University for Women hosted the event Thursday afternoon to honor students whose parents/guardian did not complete a bachelor’s degree.
25 CHS students are dual enrolled at MUW and are seniors. They were all given a green and blue cord to wear at graduation.
Hines admits her thoughts of college were few and far between in middle school. However, as she started high school the Columbus High senior started thinking about her future.
“I started thinking, okay if I do my work and do more than what I’m capable of I can go far in life. I can actually use this later on life,” said Hines.
Hines is on the Mayor’s Youth Council for Columbus, Senior Student Ambassador, and Homecoming Queen. While being involved on campus, Hines also tries to motivate her classmates.
“I see people that don’t have the drive for it, so I try to motivate them. I remind them that everything will work out in the long run. I tell them not to think of it as school but to think of it as a reward for their life,” said Hines
Seniors must maintain a 3.0 to be dual enrolled.
Hines has been taking classes with EMCC and is on track to graduate with an associate degree.
“That’s a big deal to me. That’s why I try to encourage others. So, my goal is to encourage the sophomores and juniors to get their associates (degree) because it will help them in the long run,” said Hines.
The Rotary Club of Columbus sponsored the event through the Lowndes FYRST initiative.
November 8th is National First Gen Day.
“I hope our students never give up, no matter how hard it gets. I hope they ask for help. They can ask me, if needed. Hopefully, they know what a great opportunity this is,” said Hines.
