Hello, my name is Rachel E. Kim, and I am an intern writing on behalf of the Fairfax Library Foundation. Welcome to “Where are they now?,” a blog series about the Foundation’s past scholarship recipients and their current situations.
For the sixth blog of the series, I interviewed Ms. Shekinah Reese, another recipient of the scholarship and a rising sophomore at Elon University.
Q: What have you been pursuing or participating in since receiving the scholarship?
I just finished my first year at Elon University in North Carolina. Within my first year, I became a member of the dance team, Student Union Board, etalk, Young Life, and won a Black Scholars Award.
Q: What is your career aspiration/situation? What inspired you to choose this area of study?
I aspire to go into film production and am majoring in Cinema and Television Arts. I chose this because I have always loved movies, and I have a passion for creating them as well as the process that goes into any type of film.
Q: Why did you choose the Fairfax Library Foundation as your scholarship source?
Reading has always been one of my favorite pastimes. In high school, I volunteered at the library and would also tutor there. After spending so much time in the Fairfax County libraries, I figured it would be an amazing scholarship opportunity.
Q: What made you a good candidate for the scholarship? Did the scholarship match your interests or career aspirations?
I believe I was an excellent candidate because in my life, I have always been dedicated to serving others. This scholarship helped me go to the school of my dreams where I now am a leader for Alternative Spring Break, in which we take a group of college students to do community service over spring break.
Q: Why was receiving scholarship assistance important to you?
Receiving scholarship assistance was important to me because, without it, I would not be able to attend college.
Q: How has the scholarship shaped your career path? What role has it played in your life?
The scholarship has allowed me to follow my dreams and attend an amazing university while also being able to help others.
Q: How have you contributed to the Fairfax Library Foundation or to your community?
In my community, I am currently a summer camp counselor, and we take the students to the library every Monday. This is a way for them to become stronger readers and grow their love for reading.
Q: What role has the library played in your life? In turn, what role have you played in enhancing the library?
The library has always been a safe space for me and is the reason why I love reading today. I volunteered every week at the library because I loved being there and wanted to help out in any way I could.