College can be hard. That may be a subjective statement, but no college student would ever deny the existence of challenges in their formal education. Yet with the turning of tassels and the tossing of caps, it all feels worth it.
For Tiffany Brown, a senior student studying Radiologic Science (Radiography), a diploma is much more than a certificate acknowledging her studies.
It is a success. It is a resolution.
Brown became pregnant with her daughter during her senior year of high school and has studied at ETSU from her daughter’s infancy well into her current preschool years.
While in high school, Brown was undecided on whether or not she wanted to attend college. But with the birth of her daughter, she knew college was the best decision for the both of them. Brown also expressed that our Little Buccaneers program had a significant impact on her decision since it provides generous and accessible daycare.
According to various studies, less than 2% of all teenage mothers earn their college degree before the age of 30.
“In May, at age 23, I will be a part of that two percent,” said Brown. “This journey has been far from easy. A lot of tears, stress, anxiety, self doubt and worry have filled the past four years but, most importantly, determination, dedication and willpower have led me to where I am today.”
In between lengthy, tiring hours spent in classes and clinical rotations, Tiffany cared for her daughter, enduring the sleepless nights, tears and tantrums, potty training and much more.
“There were so many days and nights I truly did not think I could handle it anymore, but I always knew I could not give up. My daughter was watching me. My daughter was looking up to me. My daughter needs me to get this degree so I can provide her with the life she deserves. I could not give up.”
One of Brown’s long term goals is to hopefully create a scholarship for teen parents, because she understands how difficult it is to care for a child while also being in college.
