The Community Foundation for Crawford County is pleased to introduce Natalie Johnson, a 2025 recipient of one of the nine Glen and Alice Beers Scholarship awards.
Natalie, the daughter of Cathleen Johnson and Mark Johnson, is a 2024 graduate of Wynford High School. She is in her second year of a Bachelor's Degree in Human Development and Family Studies at Bowling Green State University.
What is your favorite aspect of college life and why?
"So far, my favorite aspect of college life has been the different opportunities for classes that I have had. I have been able to take many courses for my major, where I have learned so much that will help me in my career. I have also grown to enjoy the community that I have found here at college. From being able to find new church groups to joining a sorority here on campus, I have grown in finding new friends and experiences."
What new interests or courses of study have you discovered at college?
"I have been able to take many new courses here at college that I had never learned about before. For instance, I have never been a person who has really enjoyed science courses, but I had the opportunity to take a marine biology and geology class for electives, and I feel like my education overall has been so much more well-rounded."
In what way has the college experience changed/improved you?
"College has definitely changed me, as I fell like I have learned so much more about myself and how to be more independent since being here. I have grown a lot in figuring out how to plan my time as well as learning some new responsibilities. Through my sorority, I have been able to gain new leadership experiences that I have never had before, so I have gained confidence and leadership skills."
What advice would you give an incoming college freshman?
"I would give the advice to have an open mind about classes. I will admit that some classes that were required electives I thought I would really not enjoy, but I ended up enjoying getting to learn new things. Also, to give new things a try and join student organizations as they can help you make friends and grow."
What is one item on your bucket list and why?
"One item on my bucket list is to travel to as many wonders of the world as possible. This is because I have also loved traveling, but in visiting these places, I believe I would gain great educational and cultural experiences."
Congratulations and good luck in the future, Natalie!
To learn more about scholarships offered through the Foundation, visit www.cfcrawford.org/scholarships
