While giving up on school might have been an easier option than graduating, Daniela Freeman’s resilience and strong will allowed her to persist and graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Exceptional Student Education.

The aspiring college English professor hopes to teach English at the middle or high school level with the hopes of earning a Ph.D. in English Education and opening her own school in the future.

During her time at Broward College, Freeman struggled with some tough personal issues, such as ill family members, losing her home, unemployment, a bad car accident and an abusive relationship. She credits the stability of attending Broward College as what kept her going as well as the caring professors she met.

“Life will come in at the most important moments of your life and knock you down, and it may even kick you while you’re down,” said Freeman. “Nonetheless, with the proper support and resources provided by Broward College, I truly believe students can push through adversities and make it out on the other side.”

One of the many resources available to Broward College students is the free mental health counseling provided by Henderson Student Counseling Services, which Freeman utilized.

“My story can also inspire other students by encouraging them to prioritize themselves and their mental health above all else,” she said. “While a career and college journey are important, there is no future in any career without health and stability.”

For all her hard work, Freeman made the Dean’s List and maintained a 3.8 GPA. She also received a scholarship for Academic Excellence and Persistence. While earning her associate’s degree, she was also a part of the National Honor Society.

Additionally, before she began student teaching, she passed the Professional Education, Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K-12, Civic Literacy, English 6-12 and English K-5 exams as well as receiving reading and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) endorsements.