Kailey Hudson

My name is Kailey Hudson, and I'm a senior at Brookwood High School. In grades nine through twelve, I have maintained all A's and a 4.0 GPA. When I complete high school, I will have completed 15 hours of dual enrollment credit through Shelton State Community College and 14 credits from The University of Alabama, which I am currently enrolled in for the upcoming fall as an undergraduate freshman. Although I've struggled over the years dealing with stress from juggling high school classes and college simultaneously, I have persevered through. Over the years of my academic career, I have learned to challenge myself by taking difficult classes such as dual enrollment and advanced classes to get myself ahead.

In my ninth grade year, I earned certificates for the “TestOut IT Fundamentals Pro” when I took Introduction to Digital Literacy and Computer Science as well as the “Forest Worker Certificate Program” through Introduction to Agriculture. By working to gain those certificates, I learned basic IT concepts, terminology, troubleshooting, problem-solving, natural resources, forestry knowledge, and finally practical field skills.

I have been a part of a few clubs over the years of high school, such as Technology Student Association (TSA), Future Farmers of America (FFA), and Green Team. Twice a year during Green Team we do the “Adopt a Mile” program, where we pick up litter and trash along a one-mile stretch of road, helping keep the earth clean and working to change our environment. These clubs have helped me develop skills in leadership and cooperation, enhanced my technical skills, and improved my environmental management.

Beyond my academics, I have been accepted into the TEACH In Bama Scholarship program (TIB) through the University of Alabama due to my passion for teaching. This opportunity will allow me to pursue my dream of majoring in elementary education and teaching first graders. Ever since I can remember, I have always wanted to choose a career that helps people. It was not until I received the opportunity to work as a volunteer at my church's children's ministry that I discovered my desire to teach children. One moment I can vividly recall was when I was leading a sermon by myself, and my students seemed genuinely interested in what I was saying. They were even asking questions to further understand the subject. It made me confident and encouraged, proving they were actually listening to me.

Thanks to being accepted into the Teach in Bama scholarship through hard work and dedication, I can get close to achieving my dream. The scholarship allows me to have more financial stability and commitment to teaching in Alabama, improving the education of young minds where I grew up. Together, my academic successes, internships and volunteer work, clubs, achievements, and certifications have shaped me into who I am today and reinforced my love for education.