Cape Girardeau Public Schools is thrilled to announce that Aaliyah Miller and Breyanah Coleman have been awarded the prestigious rootEd Scholarship, valued at up to $12,000 per year! This renewable scholarship supports bright futures at any accredited, nonprofit four-year college or university.
Aaliyah will be heading to Florida A&M University to pursue a degree in Nursing.
Breyanah will be attending Missouri State University to major in Education this fall.
We recently had the chance to ask these two CT graduates about their scholarships, future plans, and time at Cape Central. Enjoy learning more about their story in the Q&A below!
First, what was your response when you learned that you had earned this scholarship?
Aaliyah: I was in my living room when I received the email stating I was chosen for this scholarship, the first thing I did was SCREAM!!! I was so excited, I also scared my mom but once she realized what happened she was screaming with me! We rushed to call my grandparents to tell them the good news.
Breyanah: When I first discovered that I’d received the rootED scholarship, my first reaction was excitement, as I realized that the entirety of my freshman year at Missouri State would be paid for. I immediately called my mom to share the big news. We were both really excited!
What does earning this scholarship mean to you and your family?
Aaliyah: Earning this scholarship means a lot to me. It shows that all of my hard work throughout school was rewarded as well as relieving me from the financial stress that many feel while attending college. My family is also overjoyed with knowing my hard work has paid off.
Breyanah: Receiving this scholarship has significantly eased my transition to college. It has provided my family with a great deal of relief regarding my educational expenses, which was a huge concern for me when I made the decision to pursue higher education.
Why did you choose your college and major?
Aaliyah: I chose nursing because I have a passion for helping people. Many of my family members are in the healthcare field, and seeing the way they care for others while feeling rewarded for their work is beautiful. I picked Florida A&M Univeristy (FAMU) because they are a great school with a rich history. They are also the number one HBCU in the country. Holding the standard for excellence, education, and community.
Breyanah: I selected Missouri State for various reasons, but a key factor was the supportive community and the quality of education offered. I've been impressed with what I've discovered about their Education program, and I believe I will flourish at MSU.
What are your career goals?
Aaliyah: My short-term goals are to get a good score on my TEAS test and make it into the upper division of my nursing program with good grades. My long-term goals are to pass my NCLEX first try and to work at a hospital as a pediatric or postpartum nurse. I want to choose one of these specialties because of my love for kids and caring for our future generations.
Breyanah: In the future, I aspire to teach Kindergarten. My goal is to earn my bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and continue to advance my studies beyond that. Teaching has always been my passion, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have the chance to further my education and reach my future aspirations.
How was your experience at Cape Central, and what did your time there mean to you?
Aaliyah: My experience at Cape Central was incredible. I’ve met lifelong friends, I’ve been able to join exceptional groups that showed the community and culture of the school. I’ve also received a great education from teachers and mentors who are super supportive and passionate about their work. Going to this school has meant a lot to me, it’s allowed me to have personal growth, social development, in addition to preparation for the future. Overall, my high school experience at Cape Central has been phenomenal.
Breyanah: I cherished my experience at Cape Central, and I genuinely believe that everything I learned and experienced there has greatly prepared me for my future. There was always someone willing to help, and I wouldn't be where I am today without the love and support I received at CHS.
Aaliyah and Breyanah exemplify the best of the Class of 2025 through their academic excellence and commitment to school involvement. We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see the incredible things you’ll accomplish!
Aaliyah Miller, CHS Class of 2025
Breyanah Coleman - CHS Class of 2025
Photo credit: Gabby Knupp, CHS Class of 2024