Coming from a single-parent household, Ellie understood that money wasn’t a luxury at a young age. Through NCPA support, Ellie now sees college as a possibility to have a chance for a better life.
"My childhood taught me to be independent, brave and a leader. Most importantly, it taught me never to let the world push me down. NCPA is the reason I am ambitious and can go to college. I would not have been where I am right now if it were not for the support and encouragement I get from this program. Both my sister and I are in NCPA, and coming from one parent and lots of children, there would have been no hope for us to attend college. But now, we have a chance to live a better life than our mom has—a chance to live our dream and lead the way for our younger siblings.
"The COVID-19 pandemic changed my high school experience completely. I ended my sophomore year two months early. I never finished learning in any of my classes, which left me unprepared for junior year. I wanted to quit and give up on high school. I was mentally checked out, but my NCPA counselors talked me out of it and helped give me the last bit of encouragement I needed. At Grand Island High School, NCPA is a huge family, and we all support each other.
"I was overcome with happiness and excitement when I found out I was selected as the speaker. It was a feeling that I will never forget because it felt like all my hard work had been seen. I will forever be thankful for the opportunity I received to tell my story.
"I take the Pillars of Excellence with me everywhere I go. I know how important character and commitment are when it comes to education because we must have the ability to commit to passing a class with a grade that we’re proud of. Our character and commitment need to have knowledge as a base. Knowing our abilities and strengths is what shapes us to have a great character and amazing commitment."
