The Community Foundation for Crawford County is pleased to introduce Daija Sewell, a 2024 recipient of one of the six L. Earl Smith Scholarship awards and one of the 20 Margaret and Donald Wenner, MD Scholarship awards.
Daija, the daughter of Eugene Sewell and Crystal Caudill, is a 2021 graduate of Crestline High School. She is in her fourth year of a Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science/Pre-Vet at University of Findlay.
What is your favorite aspect of college life and why?
"My favorite aspect of college life is learning about myself. New experiences such as living alone, having to build a network, and research my career, to name a few, has allowed me to enrich and discover my character."
What new interests or courses of study have you discovered at college?
"A new interest I have discovered at college is myself. I enjoy learning about my weaknesses and strengths. I like reflecting on issues and seeing how I maneuver through them as a new adult in a college setting."
In what way has the college experience changed/improved you?
"The college experience has improved me by allowing me to connect to myself. I enjoy growing into the person I want to be in the profession I am driving for. I have had to choose between doing something responsible or doing something fun. I've had to carry more weight and continue moving forward, and I am proud of myself for the strength and endurance I have."
What advice would you give an incoming college freshman?
"The advice I would give to an incoming college freshman is to enjoy the experience and make connections. Life is all about the network, people you meet, and people you know."
What is one item on your bucket list and why?
"One item on my bucket list is to cuddle lions. I have always said that cuddling lions was my goal as a veterinarian. I believe that being in close proximity and having the knowledge to interact with big cats is what I am aiming for as an exotic veterinarian. When this goal is complete, I would consider myself accomplished."
Congratulations and good luck in the future, Daija!
To learn more about the scholarships offered through the Foundation, visit www.cfcrawford.org/scholarships
