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“I came to �þ���ҹ����ӰԺ��ѹۿ� State to get a good education. I wasn’t going to let anything get in the way of graduating, so I worked hard to get to where I am today.”

For Tiarra Monae' Reddick, ’21, the journey to earning a college degree has been filled with challenges. Despite once being on academic probation, the fashion merchandising and marketing alumna remained steadfast. She committed herself to her education, working diligently to make the dean’s list in both the 2020 Fall and Spring semesters.

“Things don’t always go as planned, but no matter what, it’s important to be ferocious,” Tiarra said. “I had my fair share of struggles, but I came to �þ���ҹ����ӰԺ��ѹۿ� State to get a good education. I wasn’t going to let anything get in the way of graduating, so I worked hard to get to where I am today.”

As a student, Tiarra was dedicated to her studies, yet she still found time to excel in extracurriculars, as well as on- and off-campus activities. She was involved in the Dean’s Student Advisory Council for the College of the Arts, a teaching assistant for two classes, an assistant for the Black, Indigenous and People of Color Safespace Organization (BIPOC), and a volunteer for Hire Heroes. In her final semester, Tiarra also held a manager’s position during her internship with I’Kandi Designs while remaining a full-time student.

“When I came to �þ���ҹ����ӰԺ��ѹۿ� State, I was really quiet and didn’t know where to begin with finding organizations to join. Once I started asking around and found clubs where I felt I belonged, I found my voice, and now I’m not afraid to be heard. Being involved is something I think every student needs to do when they are going through college,” Tiarra said.

Tiarra’s short- and long-term goals have always been to leave a positive impact on her community. She strives to be a voice for the voiceless and offer a safe space for others to openly express themselves without fear of judgment. Tiarra is passionate about helping others and inspiring students to be authentic and confident in themselves, an important lesson she learned for herself during her time at �þ���ҹ����ӰԺ��ѹۿ� State.

“I love helping people see that confidence comes from within,” Tiarra said. “It is so important to stay positive, even on off days. One of the reasons I love fashion and beauty is because clothes and makeup can help us feel empowered. It can be hard to find your confidence, but once you do, you’re unstoppable.”

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