Meet Rachel

Name: Rachel Agazie

Class of: 2022

Program: Bachelor of Arts in Human Services w/ a conc. in Child and Family Services

"I can't begin to tell you how grateful I feel, and I want you to know that your generous support will help me achieve my dreams."


What do you like most about SNHU?

I love the fact that Southern New Hampshire University has online programs. I'm able to sign on and complete my assignments on a schedule that works around my family's schedule. I love the classes because they challenge me to look outside the box. SNHU has given me the opportunity to make a change and improve my family's life and my life.

How do the scholarships and financial aid you receive make it possible for you to attend SNHU? Specifically, how have scholarships made a difference?

I feel blessed to be able to receive this scholarship. Thanks to your generous support, I'm the first in my family to be able to attend college. I was born in Haiti (a very poor country) and I was given the opportunity to come to the United States for a better life. Being poor has given me the opportunity to see the value of a college degree. To me, a college degree is my golden ticket out of poverty. With the help of this scholarship, a huge financial burden has been lifted and I'm able to concentrate fully on my classes without the anxiety of wondering whether I’ll be able to afford them.

What would you say to those who donate to support student scholarships?

Thank you for investing in my future. My dream of being able to attend college has been fulfilled because of your donations to student scholarships. I can't begin to tell you how grateful I feel, and I want you to know that your generous support will help me achieve my dreams. Thank you again for your thoughtfulness.

Why did you choose Southern New Hampshire University?

I'm a single mom and work two jobs. I chose SNHU because it gave me the opportunity to attend classes while being home with my son and work around my family's schedule. SNHU gave me the ability and confidence that I needed to pursue my education.

What was your hope in receiving a college education? How has your experience been different than what you’d imagined?

My hope was to be able to find a new job that would provide me with a better income to support my family.The SNHU experience surprised me because the staff was very professional and caring. I didn't think I could do it since I'm older, a single parent, and had so many obstacles standing in my way. However, I had a great academic advisor, Rhoslyn William, who made me feel like I was smart enough to get a degree. Attending college has its ups and downs, but boy was it worth it!

What inspired you to choose your area of study? What is your dream job?

My entire life people have helped me — that is where my motivation came from for my area of study. I would like to return the favor of helping other people in need. My dream job is to work in an immigration non-profit organization. Before I became an American citizen I was an immigrant in this country. I would like to help other immigrant women learn about resources in this country to become successful. I want other immigrant women in this country to look in the mirror and feel confident like I do.

Who at SNHU (professor, coach, advisor, etc.) has been the biggest influence on your college experience? What lessons did that person teach you?

My academic advisor, Rhosalyn William, has made my experience worth it. Rhosalyn always had the most cheerful voice whenever I spoke to her. There were times I wanted to give up as I was frustrated, but Rhosalyn was always calm, encouraging, and helped me get through it. Another person that inspired me at SNHU was Professor Carol Repass. I never thought in million years I would enjoy a course on researching history. I love how Professor Repass interacted with the students very respectfully and never looked down on you. She always gave you the opportunity to do your absolute best.

What do you find most challenging? How do you deal with this?

I think finding the time to do my class work was the most challenging thing that I dealt with at SNHU. I had to miss certain occasions with my family/friends because I had work that needed to be completed. However, I learned at SNHU how to manage my time better. Learning how to prioritize things and setting schedules so I wouldn't be overwhelmed.

What are you proudest of?

I'm most proud of myself for sticking it out and not giving up on my education when things got tough. I'm proud to show my son that hard work does pay off. I'm also proud of my academic achievement at SNHU such as being on the Winter 2021 President's List, Summer 2021 Dean's List, and making Honor Roll for several terms.

In what ways do you want/hope to stay involved as an SNHU graduate?

I would like to attend alumni events and take continuing education courses. I would also like to become a student mentor and help them achieve their goals. I would love to give tips and advice to a fellow student who may be struggling as I did.

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