LSC Grad Reaches for the Stars

For recent LSC-Kingwood graduate Nicola Merritt, her educational journey wasn't the most straight forward, but she's now got a bright future, thanks in part, to the generosity of others. "While the challenges of financing a college education are well-known, the scholarships I've been fortunate to receive have significantly eased this burden, allowing me to prioritize my studies and immerse myself in campus life," said Merritt.

Merritt did well in high school and started at a four-year university before inexplicably dropping out after one semester. She spent the next several years working and starting a family. "A decade passed, and the prospect of returning to school seemed daunting. I was in a different state, clueless about where to begin, overwhelmed by the logistics of transcripts, financial aid applications, balancing work, studies, and motherhood," Merritt said, "For years, I allowed my apprehensions to hold me back."

Once in her thirties, some personal tragedies made her rethink her path and she decided it was time for a change. "Over the following year, I scoured community college options in Houston, eventually finding Lone Star, a beacon of hope with its accessible program offerings and affordable tuition." she said.

She continued, "From day one, I've felt a profound sense of inclusion and support, both on campus and beyond, fostering a genuine sense of belonging that has enriched every aspect of my academic and personal journey."

Fast forward to May 2024 and Merritt recently earned her associate degree in respiratory care and will transfer to University of Houston-Downtown in the fall after passing her board exams. Her invitation to speak at StarGala was fortuitous as she was surprised with a full transfer scholarship from the University of Houston-Downtown to add to the Foundation scholarships that helped her while at Lone Star College. University of Houston-Downtown is a top 5 transfer school with around 1,000 LSC students transferring each year. Ultimately, she wants to pursue a leadership role in Respiratory Care.

"The warmth and generosity of the donors were truly touching; they embraced me and my story with open arms. And receiving the unexpected transfer scholarship to UH-D was a moment beyond words, a gesture of kindness and opportunity for which I'll forever be profoundly grateful", said Merritt.

As Nicola said in her StarGala speech, "I'm cognizant that this isn't the culmination of my educational odyssey. A lifelong learner at heart, Lone Star College has instilled in me the belief that anything is achievable, thanks to the unwavering support of counselors, professors, directors, and you, the selfless donors who help students like me."