SIMONE LOTT became a participant in the St. Olaf Educational Talent Search (ETS) program during ninth grade at North Community High School in Minneapolis. Simone qualified for the program as a low income and first generation college bound student. Throughout all four years in high school, Simone was an active participant in Educational Talent Search college preparatory activities.

Simone was always very committed to being an excellent student. In addition to maintaining a 3.83 GPA, Simone demonstrated a faithful commitment to many activities that went far beyond academics. She was on the volleyball and math teams, was a cheerleader, participated in Urban League activities, served as treasurer to the student council both her junior and senior years, and was a peer mediator. In addition, Simone was an active member of the Career Development Group, worked as the basketball team manager, and attended a Close-Up trip to Washington D.C. with her U.S. Government class.

Despite her success in school, there have been many challenges in Simone's personal life. While in high school, Simone struggled with depression related to her mother's relationship with her third husband. Her deep bond with her mother led her to seek out a college close to home so that they could see each other frequently. St. Olaf College didn't occur to her as an option until a TRIO day field trip brought her there in the fall of her senior year. She loved the music program and was encouraged when ETS advisor, Janis Johnson, offered her a job on campus: "When she offered me the job, and with all the ETS advisors telling me they'd be down there, too, I knew I'd have support." As a result of her motivation, dedication, and persistence, Simone received a number of scholarships including the St. Olaf TRIO scholarship, a four-year scholarship which recognizes academic talent and ability of TRIO participants.

Just months into her first year at St. Olaf, Simone became treasurer of her residence hall and volleyball team manager. She sang with the Gospel Choir and Collegiate Chorale, played handbells with the Manitou Ringers, and was active in the Cultural Union for Black Experience (CUBE), Harambe, a student group that promotes multicultural appreciation, the Multicultural Student Services Program (MCSS), and Professional Exploration Program (PEP).

"Ever since I can remember I have been serious about school. I never really thought about going to college until later on in my school years. Once I got involved with ETS my outlook on my future began to change. I can honestly say that without the help of people like Tim Owen and Janis Johnson, I'm not sure where I'd be today. They really helped me and they supported me 100%. Now that I have graduated from North and attend St. Olaf, they are still showing me kindness and support. I couldn't have been luckier than to be part of the ETS program. I am eternally grateful."

Simone overcame many challenges and graduated from St. Olaf College in May, 2005. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in social work.

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