EDUCATION IS THE MOST POWERFUL WEAPON WHICH YOU CAN USE TO CHANGE THE WORLD. — NELSON “MADIBA” MANDELA
Graduating WFF Awardees: Where Are They Going
“You do not want to look back and regret the things that you did not do. You want to look back and see all your accomplishments.” — Julia Nichols.
Julia Nichols
Meeting Julia Nichols, graduating class of 2020 at Edward Waters College, and future Computer Software Engineer.
Originally from North Little Rock, Arkansas, Ms. Nichols will be a first-generation college graduate, from Edward Waters College in the fall. Like many universities around the country, her graduation was set for May 2020 but, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been postponed until December 2020. In addition to earning a Bachelor of Science at graduation, she is likely to be the valedictorian! After graduation, she plans to work and earn a Master’s degree in Computer Information Systems
“Do not wait until tomorrow do it now, and keep going” —Julia Nichols
As a student, Ms. Nichols was involved in multiple honor societies such as Sigma Beta Delta International Honor Society for Business, Management, and Administration, Alpha Chi National College Honor Society, and the vice president of Sophisticated Queens Uplifting and Developing. In her role as vice president, Ms. Nichols enjoyed empowering other women, improving the organizational structure, and feeding the homeless every month. The best part of helping people she says is “seeing the growth, development, and seeing the confidence increase.” To continue her passion for helping after graduation, she plans to continue developing young minds through the Divas Destined for Greatness program leading the branch in Jackson, Florida.
As an active and ambitious student, Ms. Nichols was tasked with funding her education. Her strength and determination emboldened her to keep going, no matter what. She would always tell herself, “Do not wait until tomorrow, do it now, and keep going”. In her search for funds, she applied and received merit scholarships totaling over $18,000. The Williams-Franklin Foundation scholarship accounts for a portion of her scholarship funds. She was hesitant about writing her “true grit” story in the application but the WFF made her feel comfortable enough to open up about her situation, as a testament to her fortitude.
Q: What advice would you give to upcoming scholars?
A: No matter your situation, keep pushing. You do not want to look back and regret the things that you did not accomplish. You want to look back and see all your accomplishments.
Q: Is there anything the WFF taught you that you apply to your daily life?
A: Give back and connect with others.