eaessi

Start Somewhere

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:38:29 GMT

In 2017, while riding to Francis Marion University for move-in day, I posted on Instagram a phrase, just two words: “Start Somewhere.”

I remember feeling so empowered, grateful, and somewhat nervous. I was leaving home to attend school. No parent to wake me up, no siblings to debrief with at the kitchen table, and no true knowledge of what being a college student entails. I was a first-generation student, taking a road less traveled. Graduating in four years was the intent, but, like anything new, it was difficult. You have to learn how to adapt. In college, you will need to develop skills in networking and studying, find a hobby that challenges you, and create a routine that encourages healthy habits.

College is where the true process of becoming who you are starts. As you walk onto that campus, the main goal for any student there is to graduate. While the goal is an important focal point, graduating only happens if you have the proper tools and skills to make that goal become a part of your reality. The responsibility is all yours. You have to make sure that you are committed to a schedule that works for you. I am sure by now you have heard that 8 am classes are not as fun as they were when you were in high school. Make sure that you are comfortable with your schedule and the assignments that come with it. The syllabus for every course is a guideline to assist you. Using it alongside a yearly planner helps you stay prepared and provides a sense of clarity. Meet with your professors and visit during their office hours.

Do not be afraid to ask questions about what they are teaching, especially if you are confused. Talking to your professors will help you build your networking and relationship-building skills. They’re not there just to teach, but also to guide you in your undergraduate career and so on. Studying is an imperative component of being a thriving scholar. You have to determine what works for you. There are different types of learning styles, such as auditory, visual, kinesthetic, and reading and writing. Deciding which style serves you best will sharpen your knowledge. Every student is different, and what may work for you may not work for everyone else. Find study partners, pick each other's brains, and listen.

When studying gets overwhelming, it's very useful to take a break every 10 minutes, especially when you are looking at a screen for a long time. Taking multiple courses during a semester is normal, and the workload can be rigorous. It is good to know when to relax and take a break to help relieve your mind and body from exhaustion. You are human, and not everything will be perfect. Yes, the goal is to graduate, but you can’t get to the finish line if you don’t know how to balance. Being involved on campus has its benefits. Starting anew also means being receptive to new friendships and connections. So many groups and organizations are looking for fresh faces and new perspectives. College is not all about work; it’s about having fun too!

There will be some groups that pique your interest, even if they are not involved with your major. Having an open mind allows you to explore hobbies and relationships during your stay in your college town. You allow yourself to learn how to communicate, problem-solve, and network. Not to mention that you are also forming lifelong friendships. College is more than just the courses. It’s also about getting to know who you are and discovering yourself as a human being. Think about it: for the first time, you are in a place without parents or guardians, siblings, or even that one friend you had since pre-school. There will be challenges in areas that cause you discomfort, and you may even feel heavy. Those times will strengthen you and your experience. There will be many great days, great exams, and great conversations.

Sometimes those are met with bad days, bad exams, and extremely hard truths. Starting somewhere is knowing that you will forever evolve. Yes, you are young, and the lie is that you won’t have any time. There isn’t a clock, no real timeline, and no clear idea of when the perfect time is. The goal is not only graduate as a student, but to graduate as you. The young woman or young man who walks on campus this fall will not be the same person who will graduate in 4 years, or longer, if you’re anything like me. ( You will be fine.) If I could go back to 2017 and tell myself anything, it would be that the journey you are about to embark on is the one you have to embrace.

The only way to walk across the stage is to walk through each semester and move forward. So, if you are wondering what this August will bring, it’ll bring you into a new season for your life. There is no promise that it won’t come with its challenges, but I want to encourage you not to dwell on what doesn't feel good. When you are overwhelmed, talk to someone. When you feel stuck or frustrated, go for a walk around the campus. Dance to your favorite song that exudes joy. When you want to cry, cry and don’t hold back. There are resources on your campus that will help you. Give yourself credit. Be kind to yourself. Give yourself grace and enjoy the art of starting somewhere.

From High School To Spelman College: Finding My Purpose

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 16:50:28 GMT

From High School to Spelman: Finding My Footing, My Purpose, and My People

Starting college was both transformative and intimidating. Looking back, my first semester at Spelman College marked a season of growth and deep gratitude, especially for the support that made this journey possible. The transition from high school to college was not only an academic shift but a personal one. From the very beginning, Spelman challenged me to think critically, advocate for myself, and manage my time with intention. Classes moved quickly, expectations were high, and excellence was the standard. At first, that pressure felt overwhelming.

Over time, however, I learned that I was not navigating it alone. Because of the generosity of EAESSI, I was able to fully immerse myself in my education without the constant weight of financial stress. That freedom shaped my first semester in meaningful ways. It allowed me to focus on learning, building community, and saying yes to opportunities that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Academically, I concluded my first semester with a 4.0 GPA and began my Spelman journey as a member of the Honors Program. Beyond the classroom, I became deeply involved in campus leadership and professional development.

During my first semester, I served as Director of Marketing for the Spelman College Department of Theatre and Performance, helped found the Alpha Kappa Gamma Chapter of Alpha Psi Omega Theatre Honor Society, and served as Freshman Liaison for Spelman Girls Gone Global. I also became involved in organizations that aligned with my long-term goals, including the Future Business Leaders of Spelman, the Pre-Alumnae Council, and Spelman’s Career Launch and Spelpreneur programs.

I was honored to be named a Morgan Stanley HBCU Scholar and to be installed as a member of the Media Ministry at Sisters Chapel. Each experience taught me something new about collaboration, leadership, and service. One of the most important lessons my first semester taught me was that college is not about doing everything. It is about doing what aligns with your purpose.

There were moments when balancing academics and personal well-being felt challenging. Through those moments, I learned when to rest, when to ask for help, and when to trust myself. Those lessons proved just as valuable as anything I learned in the classroom. What made my first semester truly meaningful was the community. Spelman is a place where brilliance is nurtured, mentorship is accessible, and young women are encouraged to dream boldly. I found peers who inspire me, professors who invest in me, and mentors who remind me why I began this journey.

To future college freshmen, especially those preparing to take this next step, my advice is simple: believe that you belong, even on days when doubt creeps in. Take advantage of every resource, stay curious, and do not be afraid to redefine success for yourself. College will challenge you, but it will also reveal strengths you did not know you had.

I am deeply grateful to EAESSI for believing in me and investing in my future. Your support had a direct impact on my ability to thrive during my first semester, and I carry that gratitude with me as I continue this journey. I look forward to growing, learning, and giving back in the years to come.

Don’t Let Mistakes Keep You Down: Be Yourself

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 18:34:38 GMT

Be yourself!

Hello my name is Jared Cofield a second year in the five-year MBA Program at Hampton University, and I was a proud recipient of the “EAESSI” 2023 scholarship award to help further my education here at my “Home by the Sea”! Receiving this scholarship allowed me and my parents to not only have security in any financial mishaps that occurred throughout the year. But, it also inspired me to excel in other activities and opportunities. Being granted the opportunity to not worry about anything financial allowed me to enjoy my Freshman year at Hampton University. Joining the choir, being a part of the Homecoming fashion show, and also being able to Meet the Vice-President of the United States. Were just some of the amazing moments that I was able to witness in my first year. However it wasn't all easy at first. Understanding the balance of being on your own is a challenging task to master.

Being a small fish in a big pond, can challenge you to go outside of your shell. That was something that I struggled with in my first semester. Not knowing how to make friends and even reaching out to other classmates was something that I deemed to be scary. However, stepping outside of my comfort zone and joining organizations like choir and having the opportunity to travel across the country to sing , or participating in events like fashion shows. Allowed me to understand that the support at any school that you go to is there. If I could give any pointers to incoming freshmen, it is to not be afraid to be yourself and to ask for help. Being yourself allows others to connect to who you truly are and not who they think you are. Forming connections that will help you in the future whenever you need it, is something that only you being yourself can do in your own special way. Then finally, ask for help.

College is a fun time yet, there will times when you won’t understand a math test, or not understand why you got the grade you have. Asking for help will help you form connections with professors, classmates and ultimately build your convince up as a person and member of society. There are many ways that school can help you. Whether it be mentally, academically, or socially. Asking for help is a way to accept change in life and make new bonds. With understanding the pointers listed prior, in my upcoming year I plan to challenge myself more in many areas of academics and also allow myself to understand that not everyone is perfect and that it is okay to make mistakes. However don’t let those mistakes keep you down. Instead “learn from them so you can earn from them”. Thank you so much to “EAESSI” for granting me the opportunity to reflect and also share wisdom for the future scholars!

The College Experience - Freshman Year

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 18:24:44 GMT

The College Experience

Christian Durfield Michigan State University, Sophomore Applied Engineering Sciences Major EAESSI's blog My first year of college tuition was covered by scholarships. I am grateful for the EAESSI scholarship which helped me reduce my debt to attend Michigan State University. Not having to worry about money, allowed me to have a successful academic year. I am a Applied Engineering Sciences major with a 3.5 GPA.

Thank you EAESSI for your support! I would like to share my thoughts about my first year of college and provide some advice to future college students:

Studying for exams ○ There is a lot of free time in college, so for me the first 2 weeks is the honeymoon period where you're going over syllabus and just getting familiar with your route to classes, when to eat, and things like that. It took me a while to realize this, but before week 2 even starts you should have a planner of all the posted homework assignments and tests. Having things written down will help you remember what important things you have to take care of, while also setting up good habits as the school year progresses.

Taking school serious ○ Ultimately your success in school is gonna come from the work you put it in and out of the classroom. Freshman year is really when you want to build a good GPA because as you progress in your coursework, it gets tougher. You want to give yourself some flexibility. You learn very quickly that people come to college for different reasons and career goals, so having like minded people around will keep you motivated to achieve your goals. Overall having connections like study groups with students in your major, forming friendships with people in your classes and your professors will help you through your rough patches in the school year.

Living away from parents ○ There is significant freedom in college. You can do what you want, when you want at all times. Just because you are away from your parents and family, doesn't mean you forget the principles they instilled in you. Two things I always kept in the back of my mind in my first semester was “keep the main thing, the main thing”, and “Work comes before play”.

Being a responsible young adult ○ As a rising sophomore, my best advice would be to embrace responsibility like it's the gift. That means, yes, party and have fun, but also keep your deadlines in check, build a schedule, attend classes, and actually do the readings. Also BUDGET your money – trust me, cafe food gets repetitive but only eat out if you have to, because it becomes a habit and you burn through money fast. Laundry is a thing – don't let that pile up! I always set aside a reset day either on Saturday or Christian Durfield Michigan State University, Sophomore Applied Engineering Sciences Major Sunday to get my affairs in order whether that was loading up on snacks, cleaning, or setting my weekly agenda. Remember, being a responsible young adult isn't about losing the fun, but finding the balance between adulting and enjoying the ride.

Meeting new friends ○ I was lucky enough to enter school already knowing a few people but let friendships build organically. If you're someone who tends to be shy, I suggest joining sports or clubs that spark your interest. You're bound to meet people who are similar to you and it will also help you expand your relationships around campus

Meet The YaYa Ladies

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 15:43:52 GMT

Presented by by Dorothy "Carlene" Hamlin

The YaYa Ladies are a group of breast cancer survivors and supporters. They are all seasoned women that have experienced different types of breast cancer with different procedures, doctors, recurrences and treatments. We meet once a month and stay in touch with each other via phone, text and email. We are a group of thirteen strong ladies and have been in existence for appropriately eight years.

After all of the involvement in breast cancer walks, cancer informational conferences, networking, advocating, and video creations, they felt they wanted a more personal touch sharing time with other survivors. We created the YaYa Ladies. However, we still make breast cancer issues relating to prevention survivorship our priority and always willing to do whatever needs to be done for support.

Cancer Champions At Massey

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 15:55:41 GMT

The Cancer Champions initiative launched in 2013 as part of an NCI-funded research study to better reach underserved and minority populations in Petersburg, VA. Shortly thereafter, Cancer Champions were trained across the catchment area in Richmond, Emporia, and Lawrenceville to help align and inform clinical, research and education efforts.

Today more than 60 Cancer Champions across southern, eastern and central Virginia have been trained in the science of cancer, the importance of research and cancer prevention, and communication techniques. To better reach individuals across the catchment area where they live, work, play and worship, Cancer Champions include community members and Massey researchers who work together to identify pressing cancer issues and serve as a touchpoint in the community.

To learn more, visit: masseycancercenter.org

Pandemic, Quarantine, And Mental Health

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 18:01:20 GMT

Kimberly Mondezie, LPC, LSTAP, CSAC, CRC

This is the beginning of the anxiety. As you wait for the results of your biopsy the anxiety builds. Then you heard the word, “I’m sorry, it’s cancer.”

This is the point where many Cancer survivors will tell you that time stopped for them. Each day after their diagnosis is a wave of emotions: anxiety, depression, fear, anticipation. All of these emotions are common for anyone that has heard these words including myself. As a Cancer survivor and Mental Health Therapist I have experienced all of these emotions.

Even in the midst of our diagnoses and treatments it is important to focus on your mental health. Research into mental health and breast cancer has identified several mental health issues including Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety/Panic Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) : Symptoms include sadness, loss in activities in which you take pleasure, sleeping too much or not enough, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness.

Panic Disorder : Unexpected panic attacks with worries about having another, fear about the future

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) : nightmares or flashbacks, trouble sleeping, intense fear, taking steps to avoid the traumatic event, negative thinking patterns.

While Anxiety and Depression being more common not only in society, it might perfectly describe how you feel. What may be scary or concerning is PTSD. Research conducted by BreastCancer.org found that 80% of women have symptoms of PTSD after their diagnosis.

What does this mean? It simply means that it is important for us to take care of mental health as much it is to adhere to our cancer treatment plans. Seeing a therapist/counselor is one way to address your mental health. Having a cancer diagnosis can be too heavy for you to carry and process on your own. Below you will find several websites and resources to help you.

Resources :

www.psychologytoday.com : This website will help you search for mental health providers in your area by zip code and by the type of insurance you have.

www.betterhealth.com : This is a online therapy service

www.7cups.com : This online services provides both licensed mental health professionals and volunteers who serve as listeners.

Goal Setting and the College Experience

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 18:41:27 GMT

Kiara Hickey

When I realized that EAESSI had reached out to me and wanted me to contribute to their first newsletter of the year, I was honored, mainly because it was this compassionate and generous organization that helped me start my college career! In fact, I was one of the organization’s first scholarship recipients. Now, I am a successful and less financially stressed third year student, who is majoring in family science and minoring in sociology at the “BRONCO FABULOUS” Western Michigan University. Go Broncos!!!

So far, college has been an amazing experience for me. Not only have I continued to thrive as a student, I started to flourish as an individual! I am particularly proud of my confidence, independence, and self-love. I have also mastered setting realistic goals, which I have specifically found to be crucial for ambitious college students. Personally, I like to write daily goals in my planner at the start of every week. This helps me stay on track and complete tasks in an organized and timely manner. By writing what I want to accomplish, I am more likely to finish my tasks and hold myself accountable. The key is to take it one day at a time!

Thank you EAESSI for reaching out to me. As I continue my journey through college, I am excited to further experience and grow. One day, I will be one of the best middle school counselors with the support of this organization! A professor here at Western once told me that although my field of study may not be the most rewarding fields in regards to money, it is indeed one of the most rewarding fields when it comes to making a positive impact on somebody’s life. It is my hope that someday I will be mentioned if a student of mine is asked to name someone who has made a difference in their life. To me, that is worth more than money. In fact, that is priceless!

Getting Ready for College Application Season

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 15:44:48 GMT

September 2020

For high school seniors, the college application season is universally stressful.

However, the Fall 2020 College Application season may be even more so because of the realities of the global pandemic. Many students nationwide are sitting in front of computer screens ALL day for virtual school and have had their sports seasons & summer activities canceled since last March.

Students were mostly unable to visit colleges this past spring, summer, and even now in the fall season. These periods are usually prime time for juniors & seniors to explore potential “best fit” colleges using on-campus tours & information sessions.

Additionally, most spring & summer 2020 SATs and ACTs were canceled. For that reason, the vast majority of colleges are allowing test optional applications for this year’s high school seniors . This means an SAT or ACT are not required for admission to most colleges for this application year!

Thus, high school seniors are in a season of major opportunity! Students with high GPAs especially, whose lower SATs and ACTs would have limited their college options, now have a much better chance of getting into their dream colleges —whether the Ivy Leagues, top public colleges like UC Berkeley and University of Michigan, or liberal arts colleges like Williams and Spelman.

Note that a handful of colleges, including Howard University, have not yet gone test optional, though most colleges have . Some colleges are also requiring an SAT or ACT to be considered for certain merit scholarships, even if they are not requiring these tests for admission. Other outside scholarship programs, like the Detroit Promise Program, have not yet released for 2020-21 whether they are waiving their SAT requirement. Thus, some Fall 2020 in-person SAT & ACT tests have been taking place, as scheduled. So, look up the requirements for every college and program you are applying to, and plan ahead!

Moreover, NOW is the time to start your application process if you have not already.

Here are 10 TIPS TO COMPLETING YOUR COLLEGE APPLICATIONS

1. Create a long list of POTENTIAL colleges (up to 25) and go on their websites.

2. Research their programs and extracurricular options . Do their online virtual tours. Also, sign up for one of their virtual information sessions. Many colleges are even doing virtual interviews now, so consider signing up for those.

3. Narrow your list down to around 10 “Best Fit” schools you want to apply to.

4. Go to commonapp.org and create your Common Application . You will apply for most colleges using this portal. Add all the colleges you plan to apply to under “College Search.”

5. Create a Google Document or Word Document with a list of all the required essay questions for each college on your list. A few colleges, including Florida A&M University, do not use the Common App. For those few, you will apply directly on their websites and you will find the required essay topics there.

6. Create a resume with every activity, volunteer experience, job experience, and award you have had since the start of high school

7. Use life experiences from your resume and otherwise to think of a MAIN common app essay of up to 650 words (there are seven potential prompts, including a topic of your choice). This essay should be interesting, memorable, and specific to YOU. You can write about overcoming tragedy, obstacles, use appropriate humor, or write about some unique activity you do. Remember that this essay is going to almost every college on your list.

8. Tackle ALL the required other college essay supplements one by one ( 1-5 essays per college usually) . Get help from qualified adults, teachers, and mentors in editing your essay(s). Keep track of all the deadlines. Write a little bit EVERY week , focusing on essays for colleges with the closest deadlines first. Most college applications are due either November 1st for Early Action (you will hear back by Christmas) or January 1st for Regular Decision (where you will hear back by the end of March). Remember that “Early Decision” applications are BINDING , meaning you commit to going to that college if they accept you.

9. Request your teacher recommendations and transcripts for EACH college as soon as possible. Give your teachers at least 3-4 weeks to write your recommendations. Give your counselors & teachers an electronic copy of your resume and some bullet points you would like them to highlight. Use Naviance, Scoir, or whatever system your high school uses to request these transcripts and recommendations.

10. Complete the FAFSA beginning as early as October 1st at studentaid.gov. The earlier the better, but it must usually be completed before March 1st for Michigan colleges . Also, submit any SATs taken to colleges directly from collegeboard.org & any ACTs directly from act.org.

Breast Cancer Prevention

Sat, 29 Aug 2020 14:22:34 GMT

You feel a lump in your breast. It’s time for your annual mammogram and the doctor finds something unusual.

Kimberly Mondezie, LPC, LSTAP, CSAC, CRC

This is the beginning of the anxiety. As you wait for the results of your biopsy the anxiety builds. Then you heard the word, “I’m sorry, it’s cancer.”

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) : Symptoms include sadness, loss in activities in which you take pleasure, sleeping too much or not enough, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness.

Panic Disorder : Unexpected panic attacks with worries about having another, fear about the future

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) : nightmares or flashbacks, trouble sleeping, intense fear, taking steps to avoid the traumatic event, negative thinking patterns.

Resources :

www.psychologytoday.com : This website will help you search for mental health providers in your area by zip code and by the type of insurance you have.

www.betterhealth.com : This is a online therapy service

www.7cups.com : This online services provides both licensed mental health professionals and volunteers who serve as listeners.

James Morrison, DSM-5 Made East (The Guilford Press, 2014), 122-123, 176-177, 219-220

https://www.breastcancer.org/research-news/many-women-have-ptsd-symptoms-after-dx

11th Annual Pink, Black, And White Affair

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 14:26:22 GMT

EAESSI, Inc partners with Ladies Of Elegance to promote the Pink, Black and White Affair fundraiser.

EAESSI is a supporter and partner with The Ladies of Elegance, Inc. Each year LOE has the Pink, Black and White Affair fundraiser to raise funds to donate to Making Strides for Breast Cancer to the American Cancer Society. The evening or event reflects the orchestration of hard work and heartfelt concern from The Ladies of Elegance, Inc. and their many supporter.

Additionally, during each affair, the purpose is to raise cancer awareness and emphasize the importance of getting annual check-ups on time. It is accomplished by spreading the word and asking everyone to check themselves to protect themselves from all types of cancer. LOE actively participates in the education, early detection, and treatment of cancer.