September 1, 2006

University of Mobile Student Receives Highly Competetive GMS Scholarship

Having toiled for hours writing essays and hitting numerous snags, Eight Mile resident Bessie Smith finally sent in her electronic application for the Gates Millennium Scholars (GMS) scholarship one hour and 20 minutes before the deadline.

Then she put it out of her mind.

After 30 years out of high school, the mother of four—two of whom were in college—who had recently lost her job had too much on her mind, including caring for her ill mother, to worry about a scholarship she was sure she wouldn’t get.

So when Smith received the letter of acceptance several months later, she was awestruck.

“The tears were just like a waterfall,” she said of that moment.

Smith, now a student at the University of Mobile, was one of only 16 people in Alabama to receive the highly competitive GMS scholarship. The scholarship goes to academically talented, low-income students of African American, American Indian/Alaska native, Asian Pacific Islander American and Hispanic American descent who have demonstrated leadership skills. This year, it was awarded to 1,000 students from 45 states, the District of Columbia and three outlying areas.

GMS is funded by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the scholarship can be renewed for up to five years of undergraduate work in any field. Students who pursue graduate work in certain fields can receive continued funding.

Smith had been trying to find a way to return to school for years, but finances had been too tight.

“I always wanted a degree: my parents always stressed an education,” said Smith.

“I was trying to figure out how I could pay for it,” she continued.

The GMS scholarship finally allowed her to pursue that goal without financial barriers. But although she was excited to return to school, Smith was also apprehensive. Her family gave her courage.

“I was so nervous about coming back to school, and my fan club—my children and my husband—told me I can do it,” said Smith, adding that her husband, Samuel Smith, is her “biggest support.”

Smith said she even believes there was a purpose in the time spent out of college.

“I believe now, going back, I’m going to do better than I would have 30 years ago. I’m more focused, and I know what my priorities are,” she said.

After visiting the University of Mobile, Smith chose to enroll in the basic core program of the university’s Center for Adult Programs, which provides opportunities for working adult students to further their college education, advance their personal growth and prepare themselves to better serve their communities.

Smith said she is very pleased with the program she selected, calling the academics at the school “great,” and expressing satisfaction with the smaller classes, which are more personal.

“I also enjoy the attitude of everyone I’ve come in contact with since the initial interview,” said Smith. “Everyone’s willing to help: it’s personable. No matter what they’re doing, people take time to assist you.”

She also can’t wait to enjoy the perks of being a true college student.

“I’m looking forward to being a Ram fan, going to basketball games. I’m looking forward to enjoying the entire college experience,” Smith said.

Smith, who is determined to earn a doctorate with the help of the GMS scholarship, has been involved in community service for many years, volunteering in schools, nursing homes and more. But she said that her gratitude to the GMS program and to God for the assistance she received has increased her determination to give back to the community. Even through achieving her dream, she wants to serve others.

“I want to show I’m grateful by studying hard and making the absolute best grades I can,” she said. “I want to be able to someday provide another student with a scholarship. I want to give back.”

“This scholarship has given me hope,” concluded Smith.

For more information on the Gates Millennium Scholars Program, visit the website at www.gmsp.org. For more information on the University of Mobile’s Center for Adult Programs, visit www.umobile.edu/um4you or call 442-2558.