Scholarship story: Naima Cooper

Attainment of a college degree is a key to economic and social mobility, and our scholarships help students to afford college and access new opportunities. One of those students is Naima Cooper, who received the Nancy Penn Lyons Scholarship. We asked Naima about her time in college and how receiving this scholarship impacted her life.

Tell us about the proudest moments and biggest accomplishments of your time in college. What challenges did you overcome, and how have those experiences shaped you? 

My first semester as a freshman at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) was easily one of the most difficult points of my life. I admittedly struggled with a new environment, advising concerns, and a poor grasp of study and time management skills. I suffered from imposter syndrome and convinced myself that I didn’t belong there. I thought to myself, ‘Maybe UNC made a mistake by admitting me, or maybe those who doubt the ability of Black students to succeed at a premier institution were correct in their assumption.’

After a disappointing first semester where I was placed on academic probation, I learned several ways to improve academically and overcame my challenges. Through utilizing campus resources and asking for help when needed, I gained more confidence, became more disciplined, and focused much more intently on my goals.

I ended my college career with a 3.74 semester and 3.276 cumulative GPA. I found the courage to change paths, take risks, and reconnect with the things that brought me so much joy as a child.

I am incredibly proud of myself for overcoming all of the obstacles I faced, and I am excited for what’s to come. 

How did receiving this scholarship impact your life? 

I am extremely grateful to the Nancy Penn Lyons Scholarship Fund for its continued faith and investment in me. Being an out-of-state student at UNC is very taxing financially on my family, and this scholarship eased that burden. I am especially grateful for the faith in me even as I struggled academically. It meant so much to me to know that you all believed in my success and my ability to persevere through the obstacles I was facing. I know that I can create change and I am excited for all the different future opportunities I will engage in. Scholarships like these made it so much easier to focus on my studies and pursue different opportunities.

What are your plans for the rest of your time in college or after graduation? 

My end goal is to be a widely known author and filmmaker. I want to tell my stories and the stories of others in creative and engaging ways that foster understanding, compassion and collective healing. I am currently looking for work as a production assistant so that I can learn about all of the aspects of filmmaking and work my way up until I am executive producing award-winning documentaries.

What tips do you have for students who are planning to go to college? What would you have told your younger self as you were applying to colleges and scholarships? 

• Never compare the length or substance of your academic or social journey to others. Learn who you are uniquely and do what you know works for you and what will help you succeed. Stay connected on campus with those things that feed your passion!
• Be honest with yourself about things you are struggling with. Once you recognize that, don’t be afraid to seek help before it is too late.
• Follow your heart and follow your curiosity. Don’t let people convince you that the things that make you happy are unrealistic or a waste of time. 

The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta provides hundreds of scholarships each year to students through a variety of scholarship funds. Learn more about our scholarships here.