As promised, here are three things about me that many of you never knew:
1. I wanted to be a Women’s Studies professor. Years ago, when I had only 1 daughter, I thought my life was heading in a different direction. I envisioned a life where we lived in a quiet college/university community, and, I was a Women’s Studies Professor. I thought this would be the ideal life for us, because, we would reap the benefits of the social and cultural environment seen in many college town’s.
So, I applied to a Women’s Studies PhD program in Worcester, Massachusetts, was rejected, and ended up in law school at Georgia State University College of Law. Today, I am a practicing attorney in rural, North Carolina.
2. I attended an all girls Catholic School in the Bronx for most of my high school years. After being accepted into the Academy of Mt. St. Ursula, I returned to New York and attended school there from 9th grade, until the end of my 11th grade year.
3. I attended four colleges/universities before ultimately receiving my undergraduate degree. The only college I applied to for undergrad was Hampton University. Fortunately, I was accepted. Although I was able to attend for one year, the financial strain that an education at this HBCU was placing on my mother caused me to accept a full scholarship from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. When I became a mother, I relocated to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was accepted at Temple University and continued my studies until I moved back to New York, and then, ultimately returned to North Carolina. Back in North Carolina, I attended East Carolina University and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science, with a minor in Women’s Studies.
Today I look back at all of the twists and turns that my life took. I wonder, quite naturally, what my life would have been like if I had followed a less windy path to success. I have some ideas, but, of course, I’m not sure. What I am sure about, is that, in this present moment, I am exactly where I am supposed to be.
Much love,
Tonza
Thank you once again for allowing us to peek through the window of your life. Your twist and turns made you into the strong woman that you are today. It is the twisting of a vine that gives it the extra strength it needs to go higher!
Thank you!
I’ve always thought you were a very strong women. But then again look who your roll model was. Your Mom is certainly a wonderful roll model. But, I’m the other hand, let’s give credit where credit is due, you chose, despite one issue or another, to stay focused on what you needed to do for yourself as well as your children. I’m certainly very proud of you.
Thank you!
Wow! Life has a way of changing the “straight” path to one of many bumps and curves. Dedication, faith, confidence and prayer will ultimately get you to your goal. Congrats on your achievements. You are AWESOME and AMAZING!
Thanks Joycelyn🙂🙂
How did I not know these things about my own mom! 🤣
Now you see why I give you some of the advice I give you🙂🙂. Love ya!
Awesome journey! Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for reading my blog!
God’s Plan *Drake Voice*
Yasssss! You know I love that song 😊
Hey…. It all makes sense that GOD wanted you to follow the path you did, to achieve the things YOU accomplished, so others can see that if there is a WILL, GOD can provide a WAY thru HARD WORK. Only one thing…… When did they change the “Crazy Asylum’s” name to your High School’s name in the Bronx? Signed a Mount St. Michael’s Academy Alum……:)
😝 Ursula girls are the best in the World!!!!