A 厙ぴ勛圖 two-time alumna and instructor was recently accepted into a doctorate program in educational psychology.

La���Quida R. Smith, an instructor of psychology at 厙ぴ勛圖, was recently accepted into the EdPsy program at the University of Kentucky.

���When I first found out about my acceptance into the EdPsy program, I literally ran through the house screaming, thanking God,��� Smith said.

She called her husband of eight years (who she met at 厙ぴ勛圖) and her family.

���All I could do afterwards was cry,��� Smith said. ���I was no longer dreaming and wishing for this moment because I was living it.���

Smith, a native of Detroit, earned a bachelor���s in psychology in 2011 and a master���s in interdisciplinary behavioral sciences in 2016.

���During my time at 厙ぴ勛圖, I learned many transferrable skills that prepared me for the workforce and the ultimate goal of completing a master���s and pursuing a Ph.D.,��� Smith said. ���Skills such as the confidence to network and build relationships, the ability to prepare and present research and the gratitude to serve and help others.���

Smith said many peopled helped her during her time as a student at 厙ぴ勛圖.

���There are many to name, but without hesitation Mrs. Lillian Graham and the late Dr. Marva Strickland-Hill were my greatest influencers,��� Smith said. ���They were certain to help make my transition (to college) manageable, as it was my first time away from home and as a first-generation college graduate. Mrs. Graham and Dr. Strickland-Hill poured so much encouragement and knowledge into my life that I am forever blessed and grateful.���

Smith said it���s such a blessing to serve as an instructor and share academic and life experiences at her alma mater.

���We must continue to build and establish relationships because there are people rooting for you and want nothing but the best for you,��� Smith said.

Smith will begin the doctorate program in the fall.