The Community Foundation for Crawford County is pleased to introduce Amanda Poland, a 2025 recipient of one of the 20 Doug and Renee Leuthold Scholarship awards and one of the nine Glen and Alice Beers Scholarship awards.
Amanda, the daughter of Deborah Rex and Daniel Rex, is a 1995 graduate of Colonel Crawford High School. She is in her fourth year of a Bachelor's Degree in Forensic Accounting at Southern New Hampshire University this fall.
What is your favorite aspect of college life and why?
"For nontraditional students, the college experience can be uniquely challenging, yet deeply rewarding. Juggling multiple responsibilities such as full-time employment, being an elected official, and raising a family, while pursuing my education has been a struggle. This balancing act requires a high level of discipline, time management, and personal sacrifice. However, I also have brough a wealth of real-world experience, maturity, and a strong sense of purpose to my academic journey, often leading to deeper engagement with course material and a clearer understanding of how my education aligns with my personal and professional goals. The sense of accomplishment that comes with succeeding in such a demanding environment can be incredibly motivating. For me, the most meaningful aspect of college life is not just earning a degree, but proving to myself and my loved ones that it's never too late to grow, change, and succeed."
What new interests or courses of study have you discovered at college?
"Since starting college, I've discovered a real passion for forensic accounting- something I didn't fully expect when I first enrolled. I've always been detail-oriented and naturally curious, but learning how those traits can be used to investigate financial fraud and uncover the truth has been eye-opening. Courses in auditing, ethics, and even criminal justice have really pulled me in and made me excited about the possibilities ahead. I've found myself genuinely looking forward to assignments and discussions because they feel so relevant and meaningful. This path has helped me see how I can combine my strengths with a career that has real impact, and it's made my goal of becoming a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Fraud Examiner feel more important than ever. College hasn't just taught me new material- it's helped me find my purpose."
In what way has the college experience changed/improved you?
"The college experience has changed me in ways I never fully anticipated. It has pushed me far outside my comfort zone and shown me just how much I'm capable of balancing and achieving. As a nontraditional student managing a full-time job, public service responsibilities, and family life, returning to school seemed daunting at first. But through the challenges, I've grown more confident, disciplined, and resilient. I’ve learned how to manage my time more effectively, advocate for myself, and stay focused on long-term goals even when things feel overwhelming. More than anything, college has helped me rediscover my sense of purpose. It’s reminded me that personal growth doesn’t have an age limit, and that it’s never too late to chase a dream. Earning high grades while juggling so many responsibilities has shown me that I am stronger and more capable than I ever gave myself credit for. This journey has not only improved my skills and knowledge, but it’s also given me a deeper belief in myself—and that’s something I’ll carry with me long after graduation."
What advice would you give an incoming college freshman?
"If I could give one piece of advice to an incoming college freshman, it would be this: believe in yourself, even when things get hard, and don't be afraid to ask for help. College can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you're adjusting to new responsibilities, deadlines, and expectations. But you don’t have to go through it alone. Use the resources available—advisors, tutors, professors, and classmates—and remember that asking questions is a sign of strength, not weakness. Also, manage your time wisely. It’s easy to fall behind if you procrastinate, so develop good habits early. Create a schedule, prioritize your tasks, and don’t forget to make time for self-care. Your mental and physical well-being matter just as much as your grades. Finally, keep your goals in sight. Whether you're pursuing a degree to start a career, change directions, or simply grow as a person, let that purpose guide you through the tough moments. You’ll be surprised by how much you can achieve when you stay committed and believe in your own potential."
What is one item on your bucket list and why?
"One item on my bucket list is to walk across the stage at my college graduation, and it is something I picture often. That moment will mean so much more than simply receiving a diploma—it will represent years of sacrifice, determination, and the belief that I could accomplish something I once thought was out of reach. Going back to school later in life has been one of the hardest things I've ever done. There have been nights where I stayed up until two in the morning finishing assignments after a long day of work and family responsibilities, mornings where I felt completely drained but pushed myself anyway, and moments where I questioned if I was strong enough to keep going. For me, walking across that stage will be the ultimate proof that every struggle, every doubt, and every sacrifice was worth it. This goal is especially important to me because it represents more than just my own accomplishment—it's also a legacy for my children. I want them to see that perseverance matters and that it's never too late to chase your dreams, no matter how many challenges stand in your way. Walking across that stage will be a celebration of hard work and a reminder that growth and success don't have an age limit. It will also mark the beginning of the next chapter in my journey, as I work toward becoming a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Fraud Examiner. For me, graduation isn't just the end of a degree program; it's proof that every sacrifice was worth it and that with determination, anything is possible."
Congratulations and good luck in the future, Amanda!
To learn more about scholarships offered through the Foundation, visit www.cfcrawford.org/scholarships
