Jamie Grady
Name: Jamie Grady
High School: Pierce County High School
College (Current or Future): Wiregrass Georgia Technical College – Valdosta
Major/Intended Major: Esthetics/Chemistry
Financial Aid Program: Zell Miller Grant
Since she was a young girl, Jamie Grady had a passion for beauty.
“When I began researching options for my career path,” Grady told Valdosta Today, “Esthetics revealed itself as a great opportunity for me and an outlet for all of my interests.”
Esthetics is the principles of beauty, and the program at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College (WGTC) teaches everything from facial treatments and skin care procedures to salon management. However, Grady’s career goals are to formulate her own makeup and skincare line.
“After I finish my core education at WGTC, I will transfer to a university where I will study chemistry,” Grady said. “I plan to pursue a career in cosmetic chemistry upon college graduation.”
Her technical college tuition has been paid for thanks to the Zell Miller Grant.
“I have known about the Zell Miller Grant since my senior year of high school and I have thought the award was an unmatched advantage,” Grady said. “It was so humbling to learn that my grades from my first semester of college were good enough to receive the award.”
This summer, Grady was awarded a gold medal in Esthetics at the National SkillsUSA competition after winning the state competition in the spring. The competition features 100 different technical, trade and leadership fields with challenges designed, ran and judged by experts in the field.
“Taking gold at Nationals, she competed against 19 candidates,” said Talarie Giddens, the WGTC Esthetics Program Coordinator. “She truly brought her best, and I could not be more proud.”
Grady is proud of the fact that her grades have provided financial relief for her family.
“As a motivator for my future, the Zell Miller Grant has allowed me to worry less about financial burdens,” Grady said, “and focus on what is truly important – my education.”
Grady advises other Georgia students to remain focused on their goals and take advantage of available opportunities.
“Apply for EVERY SINGLE scholarship that you are eligible for,” she said. “Think forward and keep in mind how every little bit of financial aid will positively affect you even 20 years down the road.”
“The feeling of accomplishment is irreplaceable and the best reward for hard work. Keeping your focus, doing what’s necessary, and overlooking the miniscule setbacks will help you get where you want to be. Trust me, it is worth it!”
