Exceptional Voices: Introducing the Talented Winners of the 2024 Student Essay Contest

Reynolds Community College proudly announces the winners of the 2024 Student Essay Contest!

Taking first place is Birdie Foley, whose essay on "What Reynolds Means to Me" resonated deeply with the judges. Birdie reflected on her personal journey with mental health and how an associate degree in social science is just the first step toward her goal of becoming a therapist so that she can help others. Read Birdie’s inspiring personal essay.

In second place is Kannan Venkateswaran, whose essay highlights the power of community. Kannan wrote about the challenges of transitioning from high school to college and how he learned to thrive academically at Reynolds thanks to the support of professors, advisors, and classmates. Kannan is graduating this semester with his associate degree in computer science. Read Kannan’s moving personal essay.

Our third-place student is Jamie Roberson, whose essay speaks to new beginnings. After serving in the United States Navy, Jamie reflected on his motivations to pursue a brighter future for his family and how Reynolds taught him about resiliency and perseverance. Read Jamie’s motivating personal essay.

The J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Educational Foundation is proud to sponsor this annual event open to all current students. We hope this contest provides a platform for students to express their heartfelt stories and share their individual perspectives. Thank you to the many students that submitted essays for consideration in their year’s contest. We are grateful for the glimpse into your lives and aspirations. Your stories serve as a testament to the transformative power of education and the boundless potential within each student.

Congratulations again to Birdie Foley, Kannan Venkateswaran, and Jamie Roberson for their remarkable achievements and inspiring contributions to this year’s Student Essay Contest.