Name? Lashonda Taylor
Where are you from? Pine Bluff, AR
What degree/certificate are you getting? Associates of Applied Science in Medical Laboratory Technician
What interests you about your chosen field? Science. I never thought I was smart enough to understand science. UA Northark has proven me wrong. I am now graduating with honors.
What is one thing you will never forget about your time at UA Northark? The support I received from every staff member I ever met at UA Northark.
What challenges have you faced before or during your college career? I became a mother of two by age 15 and I enrolled in a university at the age of 16, trying to make a better life for me and my children. With so many responsibilities, I lacked the proper guidance needed to complete my degree.
What are you most proud of accomplishing? Exactly 30 years and 3 degrees later. I will finally be employed in my field of study.
How have you changed since your first day of college? Since my first day at UA Northark, I have gained confidence in myself. I deserve to reap the rewards from what I worked so very hard for.
What is one thing you wish you knew before starting college? The one thing I wish I knew before starting college is that the relationships you build with professors, peers, and mentors are what actually open doors to internships and jobs later on.
What is next after graduation? I hope to start as an MLT at my current place of employment, Jefferson Regional Medical Center and upon completion of prerequisites I would like to start at UAMS in their fast track MLT to MLS program.
What advice would you give to incoming students? Please take advantage of any resources available or that apply to you. These are very invaluable tools that can help you in your college career.