“Never give up – no matter your age, story or situation. Success is the sweetest revenge.”
Katoya L. is studying to become a social worker. A single mom, a full-time student, who also works full-time and drives part-time for Lyft, Katoya is certainly one
driven person.
Katoya moved to Arizona a few years ago, because in California, she was homeless. She grew up in foster care and has no close family, except for her three young boys, and she is determined to give them a better life.
This recipient of the Thomas Family Fund Scholarship began her educational journey at South Mountain Community College and then continued at Mesa Community College, where she was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa honors society. Currently at Arizona State University to continue her studies, Katoya is obtaining a masters in Clinical Social Work. “All I do is work, come home to my boys and go to school, “she says. “I know one day it will pay off!”
Katoya wants to be a counselor for high school students and open up a resource center for foster children. She wants to ensure that these kids do not have the same experiences she had.
“I didn’t have role models growing up,” she said. “I want to give foster care children something to look up to.”
When asked what the most important tip is she could give other students in a similar situation, Katoya replied, “Never give up – no matter your age, story or situation. Success is the sweetest revenge!”
South Mountain Community College, Mesa Community College, Thomas Family Fund, MCCD General Unrestricted Scholarship