Bradshaw made her childhood dreams come true when she got accepted into New York University’s graduate program. She comes from a town with a population of only 7,000 people. As a first-generation student, it was a challenge and accomplishment to attend the undergraduate program at Baylor because it was a “massive change.” Now, she is taking her southern charm and perseverant personality across the country.
“I’m scared, but there is something fun about knowing no one else around you will know who you are. That is exciting because I come from a small town where everybody knows everybody. And I’ve come so far that I can’t be nervous now,” Bradshaw said.
Wiping tears from her eyes, Bradshaw became emotional when reflecting on what she would tell her high school self about her college journey and next steps.
“The best is truly to come. She has no idea and it’s truly going to be the best three years,” she said.
Being the first in her family to attend college, Bradshaw relied on her professors to guide her. She said she couldn’t be more thankful for the faculty that walked alongside her and supported her as she navigated graduate school applications.
While she expressed gratitude for every faculty member who has played a role in her journey, one professor stood out to Bradshaw. Amber Adamson, senior lecturer in the Baylor journalism department, was also a first-generation student from a small, Texas town. Adamson said she and Bradshaw “connected on a relational level.”
“I think because she’s willing to be curious and willing to seek out stories and seek out answers to her questions, I think that will propel her forward,” Adamson said.
Bradshaw is set to graduate on May 10 with her bachelor’s degree in journalism with a concentration in public relations and a minor in film and digital media. In the fall of this year, she will attend New York University to attain a Master’s of Art in journalism with a magazine and digital storytelling concentration.