2012 Scholarship Recipient
Cadence Cottom
2012 All-Star Scholarship Recipient
Tell me your age, where you’re going to school, and what you’re majoring in?
I’m Cadence “Zoe” Cottom, 20 years old, at Butler University in Indianapolis, IN, and majoring in pre-pharmacy.
How are classes going so far?
I have had a few issues adjusting to the course load that comes along with being a pharmacy major, but I try not to let it get me down. I unfortunately have to retake Organic Chemistry this summer if I hope to get into the program. It’s been a lesson learned and I look forward to overcoming my previous failure.
How did you find out about the scholarship program?
My mom actually found out about the scholarship and encouraged me to apply. After reading the description of the scholarship, I realized it fit me perfectly.
Can you talk a bit about what this scholarship means to you and your education?
Pharmacy schools aren’t very abundant in the mid-west. Because I also qualified for 21st Century Scholars, I was limited to universities in Indiana. This left me with Purdue and Butler. Butler had been my dream school since 6th grade. I love the smaller class sizes, the beautiful campus, and the personal attention the university gives students. Unfortunately it is an expensive private school. This scholarship is the only reason I am able to fulfill my dreams and attend Butler. I am constantly thankful to have this opportunity because of UMPS CARE.
Tell me about your mom….How old were you when you were adopted, and what is life like with her?
My mom is a retired elementary teacher. She was my foster mom from when I was 9-13, at which age she adopted me. The first night I stayed at her house, she sat by my bed while I cried myself to sleep. She has supported me in all my endeavors, she’s made many sacrifices to get me where I am, and she is my best friend. I don’t know what I’d do without my mom because she is my rock.
Do you feel that being adopted gives you a different perspective on life in general?
Being adopted definitely gives me a different perspective. I didn’t have a ‘normal’ childhood like a lot of people. I didn’t have the luxury of just being a child – I had to quickly grow up and take care of myself. But my mom saved me. She helped shape me into an amazing, strong woman. She provided me with a loving family and a million opportunities I never knew existed. I appreciate life more than a lot of people my age. I have seen some of the worst sides of life and I’ve overcome some hefty obstacles. But I consider myself lucky for having been through what I have because I know the value in working hard to get what you want. I’ve never had things handed to me and I know that has made me a more independent woman, and for that I am truly blessed.
