Adrieanna Vest, Nelson County High School Early Program, Class of 2018. Mary Baldwin University, Class of 2021 (B.S. in Health Sciences Minor in Public Health).

How has GRASP helped you?
I was provided with the needed guidance and information to successfully earn my degree. Mrs. Francis was my GRASP advisor in high school and she helped me with the financial aid process while also encouraging me to tour colleges. Being a part of GRASP was truly a blessing to me in high school. It was a chance for me to connect with students who wanted to make their higher education goals a reality just like me.

What are you doing now?
I currently work as a caregiver to a sweet 11 year old boy who has special needs. Although it comes with great challenges he has quickly become one of my favorite people and because of him I am able to do what I love most, which is to care for people and their health. In the fall, I will be attending the University of Lynchburg to obtain my Master of Public Health. I will also be working for the University as a graduate assistant under their Multicultural Center.

What was the biggest life challenge you faced on your educational path?
One of the biggest challenges I have faced is figuring out what I actually wanted to do career-wise. I always knew I had a love for health but wasn’t sure which path to take. This forced me to do a lot of soul searching to find out what I truly love. However, with patience and the guidance of my advisor, I was able to figure out my educational path.

How have the COVID-19 changes affected you? 
The changes mainly affected my college experience. My last year of undergraduate consisted of virtual learning which can be very draining to say the least. I truly missed in person interactions with my professors and peers.

What educational advice would you give to high school students?
Always remember your "why." It is important in knowing your purpose.