Hear from Makayla

Makayla Deaton was nervous about coming to college, but she forged ahead, knowing she wanted to stay in Kentucky for school. While researching her options, she found that Northern Kentucky University was the right fit for her. “NKU seemed less worried about how students can add to the success of the university and more concerned with how each student can find success for themselves,” Makayla says. “That’s what set NKU apart from the rest.”

As an extroverted public relations major, Makayla had a hunch that college would be the perfect opportunity to grow and learn from those around her. She shares that she has embraced feeling uncomfortable because it has helped her become a better person, leader and worker. In preparation for her higher education journey, Makayla participated in the Summer Spark Academy, NKU’s five-week summer bridge program that provides first-year students with the opportunity to get acclimated while earning college credit. This program was incredibly impactful for her as it kicked off her college career with a new-found confidence.

She also became involved with the Norse Leadership Society (NLS), where she listened to faculty and staff speak at their annual retreat, sharing their experiences and struggles. This activity had a great impact on Makayla and proved to her that she could overcome the obstacles in her own life. “Listening to their stories was confirmation that I can be successful too,” Makayla says. “That despite what I've gone through, I am meant to be someone.”

Experiences like this equipped Makayla with knowledge about various campus resources. She enthusiastically shares this helpful information with her peers and classmates.

As a recipient of the Butler Scholar Award, Makayla is grateful for everything that donor-funded scholarships have made possible for her and other students. With the help of scholarships, awards and tuition reimbursements through her job, Makayla is 100 percent debt-free. “I truly believe that college is an investment in yourself, and it’s worth the money if you believe in yourself,” she says.

She is always prepared to share her advice on financing her education with other students who may be struggling. Makayla has faced difficult circumstances herself, and when she lacked stability off campus, she found the help she needed on campus. “I pay for all my expenses, so having scholarship opportunities allows me more time to focus on school, get involved on campus, make connections and pursue networking opportunities,” Makayla says.

Makayla understands how transformative donor-funded scholarships are, and she is thankful for the impact they have had on her life. It has encouraged her to do the same for someone else in the future. She urges donors to remember: “What might seem like a small amount to you can be an amount that is life-changing to someone else. Your gift can alter a student’s entire career path.”