Sydnei
Sydnei Jefferson, a graduate of Franklin Military Academy, is heading to Old Dominion University to major in marine biology.
Her fascination with ocean life began early. “I saw Shark Week and said, that’s my job.” Since then, she’s envisioned a life tracking and tagging sharks, protecting marine animals, all the while traveling the world. Her excitement for this critical mission is contagious, but she’s not starry-eyed about the work involved to get there. And she’s not afraid to own the things that challenge her: “I’m not the best at math. But I know I’ll need it for my major, so I’m getting a tutor the minute when I get to college.”
While Syd’s future and the challenges she’ll take on beckon, she has done a lot already. She’s earned certifications in NAPPS (National Association of Professional Pet Sitters) and CVA (Certified Veterinary Assistant), took a college veterinary science class, and is active in Future Business Leaders of America, Future Farmers of America, Raiders, National Honor Society – and archery. Syd says, “I used to quit a lot. But thinking seriously about my future told me straight up I’d better learn how to stick with things. Once I did that, I started enjoying and finishing everything I took on.”
Receiving a Pedestal Scholarship changed everything. “I got rejected by I don’t know how many scholarships. When I learned I was a Pedestal Scholar, I thought, Oh my gosh, that’s so much money!” She couldn’t wait until the end of the day: “I shoved my phone in my mom’s face for her to hear the news. She was in the middle of work, trying to focus.” Syd laughs, equal parts pride and relief. “That’s less money my mom has to pay out of her pocket. Believe me, that means a lot to me.”
Through every high and low, Syd draws strength from her family. At five years old, she lost her father but carries his belief in her to this day. “Making it this far, graduating, moving ahead, my family tells me all the time how proud my dad would be of me.” As for her mother: “She spent seventeen years raising me. The least I can do is keep going.”
For Sydnei Jefferson, education is the bridge to everything she’s ever dreamed of. The Pedestal Fund is proud to support her next chapter, and excited to see the waves she’s going to make.