Taylor Ellis
Richmond Community High School | Valedictorian
College Attending: Hampton University
Before joining Partnership for the Future (PFF), I had already discovered my passion for healthcare and my dream of becoming an anesthesiologist. Personal experiences fueled that ambition, including shadowing medical professionals and immersing myself in environments where I could see anesthesiology’s impact. While PFF didn’t directly support my medical career path, it played a critical role in helping me grow into the kind of student and leader I needed to be to pursue that goal. PFF gave me the skills and confidence to navigate the college application process, the knowledge to present myself professionally, and the understanding of financial literacy that will serve me long after high school.
One of the most empowering aspects of PFF was the college exposure. Initially, I wasn’t set on attending an HBCU. However, through campus tours and conversations, I discovered environments that resonated with my values and felt like a community. This experience shaped my vision for the college experience I wanted and instilled in me the confidence to make intentional choices.
The college and scholarship application process was sometimes overwhelming, but PFF helped break it down step by step. I stay organized through consistent support and resources and pursue opportunities that match my academic achievements and financial needs. PFF also allowed me to find scholarships easily, as there were consistent scholarship updates and workshops. Because of that support, I was accepted into over 30 colleges, earned multiple full-tuition scholarships, and will graduate as valedictorian.
The Career Immersion program was a highlight of my PFF experience. It allowed me to sharpen my professional skills, build a network, and gain real-world insight into workplace environments. Those experiences helped me become more confident in my communication, time management, and adaptability skills, skills I’ll carry with me through college and into my future career.
The workshops offered by PFF have left a lasting impact. From financial literacy to personal branding, resume building, and dining etiquette, I walked away with knowledge that will serve me long after high school. These sessions equipped me with the skills to present myself professionally, manage money wisely, and navigate formal environments, providing a strong foundation for my future. Partnership for the Future gave me the tools and confidence to pursue them. It helped me grow personally, professionally, and academically. As I prepare to take the next step in my journey, I do so with a clear vision and a strong foundation. Thank you to the Partnership for the Future community for investing in me, supporting me, and helping me unlock opportunities I once only dreamed of.