Matilda E. Scott was nominated by Dr. Deborah A. Brunson, Associate Professor of Communication Studies, who said “Matilda is very energetic, enthusiastic, and a committed student. She added much life to the learning environment, bringing her wisdom and life experiences as a non-traditional student to the classroom. Her contribution enlightened us all! Additionally she is a parent who is active in her community. She is truly amazing: she has given much to UNCW, although she has many family and community commitments."

Matilda is a 34 year old student majoring in Education. She is a volunteer tutor at Williston Middle school and for the New Hanover County “Tales for Tots” Program. She has also received the Minority Achievement and Leadership Award at UNCW.

Matilda has faced many challenges during her education as a non-traditional student, including the parenting of a 15- and 9-year old, working full-time at a middle school, as well as attend UNCW full-time. She says, “after juggling all these responsibilities, I found it challenging to maintain a 3.2 GPA as well as focus on my Praxis entrance exam.”

Having attended a performing arts high school 17 years ago, she had not taken a standardized test (such as the SAT) before. Therefore her experience taking the Praxis was even more challenging, requiring her to take it multiple times. “I did not give up because I knew that I had much to offer in the field of education and I knew that my hard work would defeat my challenges.” Her persistence paid off and she finally passed the Praxis!

Now she is still able to manage her lifestyle while continuing to press toward her goal of becoming an educator. Matilda says, “My perseverance in life has only made me stronger to face and battle any future challenges.”  She considers her greatest achievement to be the ability to remain consistent and persevere in her endeavors.

Matilda would like to thank Dr. Brunson "for being understanding” and Dr. Andrew Clark in Department of History, for encouraging me to pursue my passion.     

When asked what kind of advice she’d like to share with other non-traditional students, she says, “Take your time in whatever you are trying to accomplish and go as far as you can imagine.” She also shared a Peruvian proverb that has helped her along her journey; “Little by little, one walks far.”

--------------------------------------------

The Seahawk Perch congratulates Matilda Scott as our September 2007 Non-Traditional Student of the Month!