A’Rya has big dreams — to the tune of not one, but two graduate degrees! The ambitious 1,000 Dreams Fund Scholarship recipient has her sights set on the University of Missouri-Columbia and a major in chemistry, which will set her on the path to attend both medical and law school. It will also make her the first in her family to graduate from college.

What is your professional dream?

I want to attend medical school and law school. My end goal is to receive my M.D. and J.D. degree and open up my own practice.

How will you use the 1,000 Dreams Scholarship?

My scholarship will be used for transportation to get to and from school and my part-time job. I will also use the money for books.

How is this scholarship helping you get closer to your dream? 

Being a college student can be hard at times; not only am I a full-time student, but I also work so I can pay for daily expenses. This scholarship is helping me with the cost of school and my expenses, so I can focus on school more and not worry about finances as much.

What advice do you have for other young women who are wanting to pursue their dreams?

Knowledge is power and power can change the world! Strive for good power and happiness. College is not for the faint-hearted, but we are not weak!

Have you had any setbacks? How did you move past them?

Honestly, I cried and prayed. Some battles are just too overwhelming — and sometimes you might just have to break down to bring yourself back up. Continue to stay humble and know what you’re fighting for. I’m fighting to be the first in my family to graduate college and have a successful career — debt free!

What’s next for you? What is your next goal?

My next goal is to accomplish every New Year’s resolution on my poster board.