As far back as she can remember, Myddie Parker’s dream school had always been the University of Georgia.  However, as a South Carolina native, she knew she would need scholarship support in order to attend.

Fast forward to today, and she’s living her dream.  Having earned her bachelor’s degree in biological engineering at UGA, she’s now working toward her doctoral degree in biomedical engineering.  For her achievements, she gives credit to her parents for instilling in her a love of learning and asking questions, and she credits the donors who have supported her for not only their financial assistance, but also for mentoring her and walking alongside her in her journey.

How did you choose UGA?

“Growing up in a UGA cheerleading outfit, my love for the red and black has always run deep.  As a 5th generation Bulldog, I have always felt like UGA was home, and it was confirmed the minute I stepped on campus for the incoming students’ tour!”

How did you choose engineering as your field of study?

“My love for determining the reason and the ‘why’ behind an answer inspired me to study engineering.  Combining this love with a passion for helping patients ultimately led me to biomedical engineering.  Solving issues facing the medical field through critical thinking, design, and problem-solving has been nothing short of an adventure, and I have loved being able to explore this field.”

“My love for determining the reason and the ‘why’ behind an answer inspired me to study engineering.  Combining this love with a passion for helping patients ultimately led me to biomedical engineering.”

Who or what has been an inspiration to you in your educational journey?

“My parents instilled in me a love for learning at a young age.  They encouraged me to ‘always ask questions’ and to ‘never stop learning.’  I am forever grateful for how they introduced me to a love for learning at such a young age.”

What do you think are the most challenging aspects of being an engineering student?  What do you enjoy most about it?

“The greatest challenge for me as an out of state student was the weight of the out-of-state tuition.  It is a heavy burden to bear while still trying to focus on my studies.”

“Not only did the scholarships provide financial relief, but they provide so much more.  Knowing someone is walking along side you, not only in a monetary way, but in mentorship and encouragement, is nothing other than a blessing.”

You’ve earned scholarship support throughout your time at UGA.  How has this support impacted you and  your educational journey?

“I am so grateful for the continued support from donors, as they allow me to focus on my studies while easing the stress of the financial burden of out-of-state tuition.  Not only did the scholarships provide financial relief, but they provide so much more.  Knowing someone is walking along side you, not only in a monetary way, but in mentorship and encouragement, is nothing other than a blessing.”

You’ve been actively involved with engineering student clubs, which receive financial support from donors.  How has the involvement benefitted you?

“Community engagement was so important for me during my undergraduate experience.  Clubs through the College of Engineering gave me a space to connect with students that shared the same interests as me.  I have some of my closest lifelong friends from my club involvement and am so thankful for those experiences.”

How has being the beneficiary of private support affected your view of philanthropy?

“Private support has opened my eyes to the impact and importance of philanthropy.  The feeling of knowing that someone supports you and your work is so encouraging, and I am so excited to give back in the same way in the future.”

“Thank you so much for your generosity in helping us achieve our passions and our dreams!  Your gifts are propelling science forward while gifting young adults confidence and creating leaders in classrooms, labs and the work force.”

You’ve already gotten your bachelor’s degree here and are getting ready to graduate this year with you Ph.D.  What do you hope to leave as your legacy here, and what are your plans after graduation?

“While currently working toward my Ph.D., I hope to leave a legacy of mentorship and show other students my passion for research.  My mentors have walked with me and shown me their excitement for learning and discovery.  I hope to inspire in future students this same contagious spirit.”

If you could say one thing to engineering donors, what would it be?

“Thank you so much for your generosity in helping us achieve our passions and our dreams!  Your gifts are propelling science forward while gifting young adults confidence and creating leaders in classrooms, labs and the work force.”