Collyn Clark, Highland Springs High School Center for Engineering, Class of 2010. Old Dominion University, 2010-2012. Virginia State University University, Class of 2020 (Mechanical Engineering).

How did GRASP help you?
My GRASP advisor, Laurie Deadrick, assisted greatly with the continued message of keeping my options open. GRASP made the process of applying to colleges and scholarships much smoother because of the consistent support we received.

What was the biggest challenge on your educational journey?
The biggest challenge that I faced... was taking time away from school early on. Although I had to take a step back due to family reasons, it took me 5 years to get back in school to finish my degree. Adulting was definitely one of the biggest challenges for me because you're learning as you go.

How did COVID-19 affect your educational journey? 
The changes due to COVID-19 have really made me appreciate human interaction. The one major change was not having traditional graduation, which was something I was looking forward to having.

What are you doing now?
I graduated Magna Cum Laude with my BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology in December 2020. After turning down a job with a Big Four accounting firm, I am now a Ph.D. candidate in Systems Engineering at the University of Virginia on a full scholarship.

What educational advice would you give to high school students?
Know your "why" or motivation and stick to it! Any decision that you make, be sure to do it for yourself and not for the validation of others (even family).