Mackemeh has no shortage of plans for her future, and has the determination, dedication and passion to match. Currently a sophomore at St. Catherine’s University studying nursing, she has a lot on her plate during the next semester. Nursing classes will begin, and that means clinicals, community simulations, and working and observing in healthcare settings. Though it will be busy, she’s looking forward to taking on more challenges.
Mackemeh serves as a community leader for her College Possible cohort on campus and works to strengthen campus connections for other College Possible students through building a supportive peer network. She says she and her fellow students will try to find some time to spend together this semester to de-stress and connect, like seeing a movie together. She is also involved with the Pan-Afrikan Student Alliance at her school. She says the group is “a place where we can see other people like us going through the college experience and can understand how each other feel.”
In her time off campus, Mackemeh volunteers with the youth enrichment program at the Organization for Liberians in Minnesota. There, she helps facilitate discussions and answers questions about the college application process and post-high school plans. As an alumna of College Possible’s high school program, Mackemeh knows what a difference a coach or mentor can make to someone who needs guidance on the process. “My coach, Rose, went out of her way to make sure I understood the materials and helped tremendously in my college search. She genuinely cared about how I felt and advised me to the best of her ability,” she recalled.
Mackemeh has a great relationship with her current College Possible coach, Julia. “She’s been so helpful! I’m applying to the Phillips Scholarship, and Julia has helped me a lot; writing a letter of recommendation, reading over my papers and giving me emotional support,” said Mackemeh. “I know I can always talk to her when I need a break and she offers really good advice.”
Julia was more than happy to speak about Mackemeh. “Out of the many students I work with, Mackemeh shines as one of the most driven, committed and genuine people I’ve ever met. She always seems to find time to help those around her and works toward what she believes in.” With the fantastic goals Mackemeh has set for herself, those qualities will definitely aid in her success.
Looking ahead, Mackemeh isn’t about to slow down. She intends to take more classes during the summer. “Not only will I be focusing on my nursing classes, but if needed, I could pick up a minor, maybe in psychology,” she added.
When you ask about her post-college plans, Mackemeh eagerly shares some big goals. “After graduation, I want to work with Nurses Without Borders and be a travel nurse, providing aid to people around the country and around the world.”
Even with big goals and a busy schedule, it’s plain to see nothing will stop Mackemeh as she moves toward graduation and beyond.
by Morgan Bartlett
