I Wanted to Give Up

Join us in congratulating Memphis mom Markyla on her recent graduation from Strayer University! Markyla began her college journey at Southwest Tennessee Community College where she graduated two years ago with an Associate’s degree in prelaw. She then began taking online courses at Strayer, where she completed her Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in just two years. She recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the commencement ceremony at Strayer.

Markyla’s advice to any single mom trying to pursue a goal by going back to school is “Go for it!” Markyla recommends starting your journey at a community college such as Southwest and transitioning to a program such as Strayer which allows you to complete your degree online at your pace.

Markyla is due with her baby in September. We love that she decorated her mortar board with a saying “I wanted to give up, but I remembered who was watching me!” along with a sonogram picture and a picture of her 3-year old. What a great reminder of the role that moms serve as models to their children!

Speaking of role models, Markyla says One by One has certainly been an encouragement to her. She says of her mentor Lori, “anytime I need a listening ear or advice, she is always there for me, and I thank her for that!”

Lori says Markyla is just precious. Lori says, “It has been a joy getting to know Markyla. She shows her love for her children in everything she does!”

Markyla says after her baby is born in September she plans to start her dream career at Youth Villages. We’re so proud of Markyla and the work she is putting in with Lori in the One by One program in addition to her school work. We look forward to seeing the difference she makes in the world with her children and her work at Youth Villages!