Scholarship Recipient: Lauren Jackson ‘22/’24

Tell us about your journey to HSU.

My journey to HSU began in 2017 during my junior year of high school. During that spring semester, I started looking at various colleges and going on campus tours but could not decide which school I liked the best. One day my parents and I were traveling to Abilene to tour ACU when we got a phone call from my aunt telling us about HSU and her experience in the education program years ago. Because of her call, we decided to change plans and tour HSU instead. After visiting and re-visiting the campus with friends from school weeks later, I felt very heavily on my heart that the Lord wanted me to attend HSU. So, I applied only to HSU and got in! I received my bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science in 2022, and now I am actively pursuing my master’s degree in athletic training, graduating this May. I could not have prayed for a better experience than what I have found at HSU.

Finances are a concern for a lot of students and families. Tell us about the impact the scholarship has had on you.

The biggest burden of college is the finances. I was blessed with gracious and giving parents who decided to provide for me financially as much as they could throughout my years of college. Of course, there were remaining balances. By receiving scholarships, I have happily been able to stay debt free. As a recent college graduate, I do not know if there is anything more exciting than saying that you are debt free! I am incredibly grateful and ecstatic to see how I can build my future career being financially free.

What HSU organizations have you been involved with?

During my undergraduate years, I was a member of Alpha Iota Omega. A member of SABERs and Gamma Beta Phi. I am a writer for the Brand Newspaper and a certified swim instructor through the HSU swim program.

What is your favorite Cowboy tradition?

My favorite HSU tradition has to be Gilbert’s birthday bash! It was always exciting to enjoy time with friends, playing games and celebrating our beloved Goose.

What is your favorite study spot on campus?

To be truthful, I did most of my studying in my dorm room or apartment, but there were times when I went to the 3^rd floor of the library or would set up my hammock on Anderson lawn to study.

What has your student experience been like at HSU?

My student experience has been incredible. My 4 years of undergraduate were the best years of my life. I had so much fun getting involved in as many organizations as I could and making as many friends as I could. During my master’s program, I had to leave Abilene and move home with my parents. I miss the on-campus experience. It is no fun having to be a grown-up (ha-ha)!

How has your degree program helped prepare you for your future career calling?

The athletic training program has been incredible at HSU. I have the best professors who care so much about how we perform in class and helping us prepare for the national exam in May. I could not have asked for better people to be surrounded with and taught by. As far as my future calling, this program has really helped me see God’s plan for my life. For years I thought that He was calling me to physical therapy, but the Lord sure does close and open doors when needed. This program opened exactly when I needed it! I took a leap of faith and could not be happier. I pray to pass the exam in May and am actively looking for job openings around my hometown to start in the Fall.

What has been your greatest achievement thus far?

I believe my greatest achievement so far is figuring out what I want to do as far as my career goes. All thanks to God and the athletic training program. I am finally at peace with where I want to work and how God can use me for His kingdom. I am excited to graduate and get started as an ATC!

How has HSU impacted you?

HSU gave me the experience of a lifetime. I talk all the time about how much I loved the school and what I have been able to gain from being a student there. At HSU I was blessed with amazing friends and professors who only wanted the best for me. I have gained certifications and working experience that have helped push me educationally and get me to where I am today.

What is next for you?

After I graduate in May, I will take my athletic training certification exam a few weeks later. So, once I get my results, I can start applying for jobs and hopefully get a job offer before football season starts. I would love to start working in a High School setting, but truly wherever God wants to place me is where I want to work.

Go Cowboys!