John Smith
Contributing Writer

Harrison is a running start student with big dreams and no intention of letting others tell her what she can’t have. She is no stranger to adversity herself, with a complicated home life, making time for community outreach, and a busy schedule, she takes it all in stride.

She participates in the Multicultural Leadership institute, which has been an interesting experience for her. Participating in workshops about culture and diversity as well as discussions about the relationships of other cultures when impacted by religion. “It has had a large impact on my thought processes.” Harrison said.

When asked if handling it all was difficult she said, “Not at all, its all about balance and priorities.” Harrison has a number of lofty goals which all seem to center around helping others. Even her eventual transfer and professional choices as a clinical psychologist move towards that end.

Harrison is small, and soft-spoken, something that can be mistook as shy until starting to talk with her. She speaks with plenty of fervor when the topic is one she’s interested in.  “I wasn’t always so fortunate in my life.” she said.

Harrison’s mother is adopted and this has had significant family influence on her and her mother. Stories about her mother having to carry more of the workload than the other children are reminiscent of the stepchildren in fairy tales. Harrison herself was treated differently as well, finding herself pushed aside and somewhat ignored, resulting in her pushing herself even further to the side.

Harrison has come a long way from the small girl who would cry thinking that she hadn’t done enough for others in her life. She has helped out in a soup kitchen, has hopes of being a motivational speaker, and even has her eyes set on starting an organization. The organization would secure funding for a variety of community outreach programs such as affordable child care and cancer research.

She speaks with emotion, but at times seems almost embarrassed that the topic is about her, instead of the causes she believes in. “I want to let others know they are not alone.” Harrison said.

Her poetry, which was originally a coping method, has become much more. While she only considers herself an aspiring poet she does one day hope to put out a book with her collection inside. Harrison thinks that it could be useful for others attempting to work through troubles as she, “Finds her voice in poetry.”

A constant focus in all her activities is as she says, “Empowerment – Not allowing others to tell you that you cant do something.” Many people in her family thought the burden of running start might be too much but she has persevered and continued on towards her goals. She is an excellent example to follow if success is the goal.

“The one thing that always brings joy into my life is when I help those around me.”