Lakin graduates from her Kansas high school in May, but she’s already ahead of the curve when it comes to pursuing her career goals. This 1,000 Dreams Fund Scholarship recipient will be attending Barton Community College for two years before heading to Fort Hays State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work with a minor in law enforcement. Here’s what else she had to say.

What is your professional dream?

My professional dream is to be a social worker.

How will you use the 1,000 Dreams Scholarship?

The scholarship will help me continue my academic career.

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

It will be easier for me to take more classes and not struggle as much with the costs.

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

Make goals. Keep striving. And don’t let anyone step in your way. It sounds tough when you think about it. But whatever career and life you want, don’t stop until you have earned what’s rightfully yours.

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

I’ve had several setbacks, but I just know that I can do better and fight harder.

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

I will graduate high school in May and then I will head off to Barton for the next step in my future career!