PeerForward alumni have followed many career paths and found much success. Here, Daisha Overstreet shares her journey.
When did you become a part of PeerForward? Please share about your summer workshop experience?
My Peer Leader Workshop was at Marshall University in the summer of 2012. I’ve stayed in dorms through participating in Upward Bound, but this experience was very different. I knew from my workshop experience that I wanted to continue with PeerForward in some way. The connections and bonds made during my workshop were amazing. After the dance, my roommate and I sat and talked until almost 5 in the morning! Although we were super tired the day after, that was an experience we did not want to give up.
How did PeerForward help you to prepare for college? How has PeerForward influenced your college experience?
PeerForward gave me options to consider. I learned about Kent State through my College during my workshop. My PeerForward experience has helped me in the process of breaking down the obstacles that I tend to build for myself. This experience always reminds me that my opportunities are endless.
What obstacles or challenges did you have to overcome in order to get to college?
I’ve faced more obstacles while in college in addition to getting to college. I mostly struggle with financial issues. Although I was accepted into Kent State early, I was unable to afford a most of the tuition. But eventually the university blessed me with a few scholarships before graduation.
How did you and the peer leaders at your high school help create a college-going culture?
We had several meetings during the school year, but unfortunately, we did not host any events.
What campus activities are you involved in?
I am the President and Founder of POETREE, a student organization intended to bring together the performance poetry community and also encourage others to get in touch with their creative side. I also work at the Wick Poetry Center assisting with event planning and customer service. Additionally, I support Black United Students (BUS) and Focus on the Future (FOF).
What do you plan to do after college?
That is still in the air. Although I do value my journalism courses, I have not found my niche in the field yet. Therefore, I don’t see myself in this field for too long. By minoring in Human Sexuality and Pan-African Studies, I hope to influence and encourage people on their own endeavors. I have a passion for spreading love and truth to anyone that passes my way. I want others to know that their possibilities are endless, but one must get past the social constructs and institutions to realize this. I’m working on a career that hasn’t been established or I haven’t found.
What advice do you have for high school seniors who are on the fence about going to college?
I advise any student to go to college. Whether you complete or not, you get to witness a different realm and culture of people that you will not have access to if you’re not in college. The friends you make, the work you do, the knowledge you gain, and the person you become all happen while you’re in college, so don’t miss out on this opportunity if you don’t have to.
