Henrietta Jackson
Henrietta’s Path to the Skies Starts at Marywood
When Henrietta Jackson first visited Marywood, she knew it felt right. “As I was driving past colleges, Marywood instantly caught my eye due to the homey, quiet atmosphere and the friendly people who seemed easy to approach,” she said. The fact that many others recommended the university to her was, in her words, “a green flag.”
Henrietta is grateful for the financial support that made her dream possible. She received several scholarships. “It really helped ease some of the financial pressure from my family, as it essentially paid off the entire cost of my room and a bit more,” she shared. “The less my dad has to worry, the better!”
Although she has only just begun her Marywood journey, Henrietta has already started forming strong bonds. “I have just arrived here two days ago, but already I have made some powerful friendships with my roommates and the people I’ve met at orientation, and I hope to build my network further,” she said.
One of the most important lessons she’s already learned is the balance between giving and receiving support. “It feels amazing to help people, but it’s also ok to ask for help too,” she reflected. That realization has helped her embrace a new level of independence. “I finally got a taste of true independence that, at first, I was incredibly scared of having, but I quickly grew into it.”
Looking ahead, Henrietta envisions herself soaring to new heights—literally. “I’d like to see myself as a successful commercial pilot, working my way up to becoming an airline pilot. I’d also be a proud graduate of the university, making my dad proud, and finally making enough money to contribute back to the family and to pay my own debts.”
Henrietta is especially grateful for the donors who make opportunities like hers possible. “I would tell them that they’ve helped me gain my independence and spread my wings—quite literally if I’m in a plane,” she said. “I would also send them a couple of photos of my journey, as proof of their help. Then I’d tell them they are very generous people, as there are 515 kids in my freshman class alone that have been assisted by them.”
She also looks forward to one day giving back to herself. “Yes, because it will one day be someone else’s turn to be the terrified college freshman, and I think if I pitched in a bit, it would make me feel a bit better.”
As she imagines the day she’ll walk across the stage at Commencement, Henrietta knows it will be unforgettable. “It will feel surreal, and I’ll probably question if this is really happening and whatnot. I maybe will shed a tear or two once I see my family and also the friends I’d be leaving behind.”