Name:  Lacey Smith-Shelton

Hometown: Plover

Course of Study: Criminal justice with human services

Why did you choose Edgewood College?
I chose Edgewood College because I liked the location and the small class sizes. I also liked how much access you have to professors when you need help. I think having the ability to sit down with a professor has helped me succeed here.

How has financial aid impacted your college experience?
Financial aid was the only way I was able to go to college. My family has always lived below the poverty line, so saving for my education was not an option. The amount of financial aid I received was the deciding factor when picking a college.

What will a college degree mean to you?
A college degree will mean that I will be able to fully provide for myself and one day give back to my mom for all her hard work with raising me.

Did you learn something in college that you did not expect?
Something I didn’t expect learning or finding out during college was who I truly am. But I am fortunate enough to say I have found that out in my 3.5 years at Edgewood College.

What are your plans after graduation?
I plan on working for Child Protective Services after I pass my licensing exam upon graduation. Eventually, I hope to go on to earn my master’s and work directly with at-risk youth to address the ‘school to prison pipeline.’