From one Pioneer to another, with thanks to everyone who supports the Transylvania Fund: Q&A with Transylvania University student Zaida Jones ’22
Zaida Jones ’22 grew up in a close-knit community in Eastern Kentucky “where no one is a stranger.” From an early age, she was curious about how things worked and intrigued by the process of “solving problems and mysteries.” For the future forensic pathologist, Transylvania University’s campus felt just right. Jones is a William T. Young scholar and pre-med biology major, and she is active in the Transylvania Environmental Action League and Culinary and French clubs.
How does having support from donors enable you to learn and grow as a scholar and as a person?
Having the support of a scholarship has given me confidence and enabled me to stay focused on my academic goals of becoming a forensic pathologist. It has also created an opportunity for me to pursue my passion for environmental action on campus. As an active member of TEAL, the student environmental league, I have enjoyed making friendships and inspiring sustainable changes in my peers. This freedom to connect with my peers while solving issues that affect our environment has been the perfect way to grow as an individual.
What are some of the things you’ve done as a member of TEAL?
One of my favorite memories from our campus meetings last year was an event that I planned which encouraged everyone to decrease the wasteful use of plastic shopping bags. We had a very successful campuswide event in which we each designed our own reusable canvas bags to decrease the amount of single-use plastics in our daily lives. I have also been working with hospitals that discard clean, untouched surgical towels on a daily basis. I am currently collecting these towels in hopes of providing them for students to use and wash instead of relying on paper towels.
How is the pre-med path helping you toward your goal?
Being pre-med and particularly interested in biology, I was very impressed with Transy’s science program as well as the rich tradition of preparing students for the trials and tribulations of medical school admittance. The one-on-one attention I have received in my first year of pre-med-focused courses have far exceeded my expectations. I have no doubt that I will continue to learn and grow as I prepare to apply for medical school my senior year.
What would you like to say to donors who are helping you achieve your dreams?
Because of your generosity, I feel my goal of becoming a doctor is truly within reach. You have inspired my desire to be part of the success of my future fellow pioneers.
Learn more about The Transylvania Fund.