Over the next few weeks, Gates County Community Partnership will highlight some of its scholarship recipients, emphasizing their college journey and experiences since receiving one of our scholarships. Our objectives are to keep our local community engaged in the success of our youth and to help improve our students’ understanding of college. We recognize how these stories can inspire others and deliver a positive impact on young lives.
Today’s spotlight is on Makayla Hathaway, a 2021 graduate of Gates County High School and a 2024 graduate of Elizabeth City State University. She was a recipient of Gates County Community Partnership’s “NC Promise Tuition Scholarship.” This scholarship funds a full year of tuition at one of the four North Carolina Promise institutions: Elizabeth City State University, University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Fayetteville State University, and Western Carolina University.
1. What major or area of study did you choose?
After graduating from high school, I attended Elizabeth City State University and majored in Social Work.
2. What are you up to now?
Currently, I am in the Masters of Social Work program at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, in the Advanced Standing Program with a focus in School Social Work and Play Therapy.
3. How did the “GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship” help ease your transition into college?
The GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship made it easier to transition into college. When some people see ECSU as a school, they see the low cost tuition, but this scholarship helps cover essentials like books and supplies, reducing the financial strain on students and their families. This scholarship gave me a confidence boost as well; receiving a scholarship, no matter the size can help a student’s self-esteem by validating their academic or personal achievements.
4. Can you share your experience transitioning from high school to college?
After finishing high school, I was unsure of my major, how I would do in college, and if I would survive the dreaded 8:00 AM classes that I heard were the worst (I am not a morning person). The transition of moving out of home and into a college dorm was bumpy at first, but once I acclimated myself to the environment, everything was great! I enjoyed the college experience, especially being at an HBCU.
5. What were some of the most rewarding experiences during college?
There were so many different experiences and opportunities that I was able to participate in while attending ECSU. PBS interviewed me about my college experience for a Live TV broadcast. I had the pleasure of flying to California for the HBCU Honda Trivia Challenge. I was one of two people from ECSU, and one of six in the entire country to participate in an international social work progression conference. I made lifelong friendships with peers and professors. I received awards for being the top of my social work graduating class. Dr. Kim Downing, ECSU’s Director of Social Work, described me as one of the best students in her decades of being a professor. I was a member of Phi Alpha Honors Society, a social work organization that is dedicated to honoring diversity, equality, inclusivity, justice, and fostering a community where individuals from all walks of life can flourish. And, by the Grace of God, I graduated Magna Cum Laude, with highest honors!
6. In what ways have you been able to engage with the community since high school?
Early in college, I founded a nonprofit organization called The Better Promise. We raise money to donate items to our homeless population and nursing home residents, as well as hold food and school supply drives in Gates County, Hertford County, and Pasquotank County. It blesses me to be able to serve others.
7. What are your life goals/aspirations?
In the foreseeable future, I hope to own my own business as a fully functioning licensed social worker who provides therapy to populations in need. I will have services for single parents with children who may be struggling, open income-based housing, and provide play therapy services to children. I hope this will be a fully flourishing business model in rural areas, like Gates County, where there is an opportunity for so much to occur!
8. What advice would you offer to future college students on making the most of their college experience and giving back to their community?
To students who go to college and wish to give back, follow your heart. If it feels right to do right, then do it. It puts joy in your heart to lead with virtue and serve others. Push and advocate for justice. Stopping gets you nowhere! Anything that is attainable is achievable.
9. Is there anything else you would like to share with the Gates County community?
Put faith in your community! Open your hearts and minds to positive change and opportunity! Remember that one day, the youth of our town will be the ones in charge. Guiding them in the right direction and implementing hope into their lives is paramount.