Because of the Thompsons, I am a Falcon

Thompson Working Families Scholarship makes BGSU a viable option for Janae Johnson

Like many students who aspire to go to college, I had no idea how I was going to make higher education a reality for me, but I knew I needed to find a way in order to increase the chances of having a better life for my family and me.

I grew up in a low-income, single-parent household in a failing school district, where very few people, including my older brother, attended college. Honestly, no one in my immediate family finished college. With the encouragement and support from my family at a young age, I worked hard in school with the goal that I was going to be a first-generation student. Having that goal was just the first step. I still had to pick the right college, find a way to pay for it and be successful in and out of the classroom.

After researching and comparing many universities, I realized Bowling Green State University met all of my college criteria. After researching the business program specifically, it was clear that the College of Business was second to none. Everyone I talked to had nothing but incredible things to say about their experience or a close friends’ experience at BGSU.

That’s why I was extremely thankful and excited when I found out I would be a recipient of the Thompson Working Families Scholarship. Before I even stepped foot on Bowling Green’s campus, being selected as a Thompson Family Scholar had already impacted my life for the better.

The Thompson Working Families Scholarship has provided me with more than just financial support. It has helped me to become the person I am today. Because I don’t have to work multiple jobs in order to afford college, the scholarship has allowed me the opportunity to grow professionally and personally. I have been able to join campus organizations, take on leadership roles and complete internships. I have been able to focus on my studies and take full advantage of my time at BGSU. I even lobbied for higher education funding with BGSU President Rodney Rogers at the Statehouse in Columbus!

Fortunately, the financial aid office at BGSU has helped make my dream come true. With the Thompson Working Families Scholarship combined with the University Freshman Academic Scholarship, federal grants, College of Business scholarships and a small student loan, BGSU is an affordable school for me. I am so thankful for the generous donors who made these scholarships possible. Because of their support and investment, all of the incredible experiences at BGSU are available to me.

Additionally, the Thompson Scholarship Programs staff have helped me find organizations and clubs that fit my interests. We developed a four-year graduation plan, and they connected me with a job on campus that reflects my intended career path. The whole process has given me confidence and reassurance whenever I need it. In other words, this scholarship has been, and continues to be, the best part of my college experience.

There’s not a doubt in my mind that I would not be at BGSU today, or be the person I have grown to be, if it were not for Mr. and Mrs. Thompson. They have done more for me than anyone ever has, and words cannot explain how proud and grateful I am to be a part of the Thompson Family Scholars.

—  Janae Johnson, second-year
student from Cleveland