My journey to Peirce and Organizational Leadership and Management program began in January of 2017.  I had been throwing around the idea of going back to school with my friend, Kenneth Blair, Jr.  who was a recent graduate of the same program and former Peirce employee but I was afraid to take that step.  He assured me (as he did throughout this entire journey) that I could do this.  I prayed about it and took a leap of faith and submitted an application for admission on January 5, 2017 and received notification from Dr. Zappala on January 11, 2017 that I was accepted and informed that classes started January 15, 2017.  I was excited and nervous all at the same time.  I received an email on January 13th from my advisor, Dr. DaVida Rembert, who later became my go to for everything, welcoming me to Graduate Studies.  She almost knocked me off my feet when she gave me her home phone # in case I needed anything. What advisor does that? 

     I proceed to my first class on Friday not knowing anyone or anything and was ball of nerves.  Who knew that I would meet a group of people who were not only my cohort but became my friends for life.  I was so worried that I would be the oldest student in the room but felt so comfortable when I realized everyone was around my age.  I immediately bonded with Marlena, Jeff, Warren and Ray.  Marlena, Jeff and I became like the three musketeers.  Marlena and I decided from that first class that we would take every class together and we did.  God brought she and I together and while it's only been 2 years, I swear she has been friend forever.  She has helped me through so many rough patches and when I wanted to give up, she would not let me. She said we started together, we will finish together so get it together!

     My time at Peirce has truly been a journey.  I've stressed, I've cried and I kicked butt the entire way through.  I drove all of my professors crazy but they were patient and kind.  I am so thankful for the great professors I have had, especially Drs. Zappala, Rembert and Vicky and Professors Adams, Winner and King.  These professors made a really big impression in my life and I will never forget them.  I am also very thankful for the many other classmates I have made along the way that really left an imprint on my heart (LaShanda, Yavuz, Renee, Ken, Pam, Sondra, Leslie, Danni, Tisha, Marcus, Melanie and so many more).  To my GSA family, I love you guys and appreciate working with you.  As Dr. De says, once GSA, always GSA.  Thank you to all of my Peirce family for everything. 

Class of 2019,  "We did that!!!"