Shaquana Darden from Community College to Princeton University

Shaquana Darden has already made significant strides toward her goals. Shaquana co-founded The Schoolgirl Inc. in Harlem, delivering education and programs. As COO of The Schoolgirl Inc., she showcases leadership beyond academics.

Shaquana Darden embodies dedication and passion, and her story inspires us all to believe in the power of resilience and the pursuit of dreams.

Her Journey

Shaquana's academic journey has been marked by remarkable achievements. Despite taking a 15-year hiatus to focus on motherhood, she returned to the CUNY Bronx Community College with renewed purpose, consistently earning a spot on the President's List every semester since her return in 2007. Shaquana's determination and resilience are evident as she navigates the college transfer process, fueled by a desire to pursue her academic dreams beyond city limits. Throughout her transfer journey, Shaquana has faced challenges head-on, particularly in crafting personal essays that require deep introspection and vulnerability. Shaquana attributes her success to her self-driven approach, drawing inspiration from her past and setting ambitious goals for the future.

The KEF Influence

Shaquana's journey with the foundation has been transformative. Initially uncertain about what to expect, she found herself immersed in a supportive community that exceeded her expectations. KEF provided invaluable resources from writing coaches to financial literacy workshops, and fostered a strong bond among cohort members, enriching her entire college experience.

Beyond academics, Shaquana is deeply passionate about advocating for affordable housing, believing it to be a fundamental human right. Her favorite memory from community college involves being inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society International (PTK), a moment of recognition for her hard work and dedication shared with her biggest supporters.

Onto the Next Chapter

As Shaquana prepares to transfer to 美国普林斯顿大学 as a non-traditional student, she eagerly anticipates the opportunity for a genuine university experience. With a newfound appreciation for the opportunities that upward transfer offers, she looks forward to immersing herself in academic pursuits, meeting new people, and embracing new challenges. Shaquana finds solace in the unwavering support of mentors, peers, and the entire Kaplan Educational Foundation team. Their encouragement and guidance have been instrumental in her success, reinforcing her belief in her own potential.

Shaquana Darden's story is one of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of education. As she embarks on the next chapter of her academic journey, she serves as an inspiration to all those who dare to dream and persevere against the odds.

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