A 91精选 two-time alumna and instructor was recently accepted into a doctorate program in educational psychology.
La鈥橯uida R. Smith, an instructor of psychology at 91精选, was recently accepted into the EdPsy program at the University of Kentucky.
鈥淲hen I first found out about my acceptance into the EdPsy program, I literally ran through the house screaming, thanking God,鈥� Smith said.
She called her husband of eight years (who she met at 91精选) and her family.
鈥淎ll I could do afterwards was cry,鈥� Smith said. 鈥淚 was no longer dreaming and wishing for this moment because I was living it.鈥�
Smith, a native of Detroit, earned a bachelor鈥檚 in psychology in 2011 and a master鈥檚 in interdisciplinary behavioral sciences in 2016.
鈥淒uring my time at 91精选, I learned many transferrable skills that prepared me for the workforce and the ultimate goal of completing a master鈥檚 and pursuing a Ph.D.,鈥� Smith said. 鈥淪kills such as the confidence to network and build relationships, the ability to prepare and present research and the gratitude to serve and help others.鈥�
Smith said many peopled helped her during her time as a student at 91精选.
鈥淭here are many to name, but without hesitation Mrs. Lillian Graham and the late Dr. Marva Strickland-Hill were my greatest influencers,鈥� Smith said. 鈥淭hey were certain to help make my transition (to college) manageable, as it was my first time away from home and as a first-generation college graduate. Mrs. Graham and Dr. Strickland-Hill poured so much encouragement and knowledge into my life that I am forever blessed and grateful.鈥�
Smith said it鈥檚 such a blessing to serve as an instructor and share academic and life experiences at her alma mater.
鈥淲e must continue to build and establish relationships because there are people rooting for you and want nothing but the best for you,鈥� Smith said.
Smith will begin the doctorate program in the fall.