Ania Henderson

Growing up, sports were always big in my house. In high school, I dreamed of attending college on a basketball scholarship. Like so many others who suffer injuries, that dream came to an end when I was driving for a layup, got pushed and dislocated my shoulder. I was devastated and this was one of the most challenging moments I’ve been through because I thought basketball would help pay for my tuition. I was heartbroken, but my parents helped me realize there is always something else you can do. When my goal of playing collegiately ended, I was determined to refocus my goals.

For me, the something else was a new dream, which I am currently pursuing at OU. During my time through the rehabilitation process, I grew close to one of my nurses who really helped me recover. This was what sparked my interest in becoming a doctor. However, after my injury and with the possibility of a basketball scholarship stripped away, I was unsure of how I would be able to afford college.

I was fortunate to obtain a scholarship through the OU College of Arts and Sciences, and it has made huge impact. Easing the financial burden allowed me to network and to establish connections for my future. This molded me into a more social person and made me realize there is always a community out there for me. I’m a member of the Withrow Leadership Scholars who have the opportunity each summer to study abroad. Traveling to France, meeting distinguished alumni and making best friends has been among my favorite memories while at OU.

I am excited about graduating this spring. Beyond this year, my goal is to take the MCAT and focus on medical school. This is my deepest aspiration to transition into a new and exciting stage of my life. The events of the last few months around the country have affected us all in many ways. I feel like we have amazing doctors, but being a Black woman there is a need to have people we can relate to in the position I aspire to be in.

I would like to thank those who gave to my scholarships that will make this goal a reality. Through their generosity, I’ve been able to focus on succeeding academically and travel across the world. I feel very secure in what I’m doing because I’m able to stay focused. Their generosity inspires me to stay connected to OU and eventually be able to give back to students like me in the future.