We’d like to formally introduce our Spring 2025 2nd Place Scholarship Recipient, Sydney Andrews . The Lisa Michelle Memorial Fund was established to assist and recognize students who have lost a parent, guardian, grandparent, sibling, and/or spouse to substance abuse. We are proud to award a $500 scholarship to assist Sydney this year. Sydney is majoring in Physics at Appalachian State University.
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Sydney Andrews and I’m from a small town on the coast of North Carolina. I just started my masters degree in engineering physics from App State, where I also got my undergraduate degree. In my free time I like to read, hike and just be outside.
Q: Imagine yourself 10 years from now. What goals and ambitions do you have for yourself, personally, academically, and professionally?
After I get my masters degree I hope to get a PhD in astrophysics, so in 10 years I hope to be done with that and work towards a career as a college professor. I also want to make a difference in people’s lives like people have in mine.
Q: Aside from a college degree, what do you hope to gain from your college experience?
Through my college experience I hope to gain lifelong friends that I can keep in touch with no matter how far apart we may live. I have met some of my best friends in college and I hope to continue those relationships long after I graduate.
Q: What motivates you to continue working towards accomplishing your goals?
I am currently a TA and I love the job, which is one thing that motivates me working towards my goals. I know that I will love the career path I’ve chosen. My sister I also someone who motivates me to pursue my goals, she supports everything I’ve done so far and is as excited for my goals as I am.
Q: What advice would you give to other students who have been through circumstances similar to yours?
The advice I would give other students who have been through circumstances similar to mine is that what you’ve been through doesn’t define you or make you who you are. You can choose to continue to chase your dreams, even when it’s hard or the odds are against you.
The Lisa Michelle Memorial Fund 