Scholarships Provide More Than Financial Support

Natalia (Lawson) Mitchell now works as an outpatient pediatrics physical therapist.

By Natalia (Lawson) Mitchell '10, B.A. Athletic Training
After I graduated from UNI, I was accepted into the physical therapy program at the University of Iowa. I owe a great deal of my acceptance into graduate school to the Sammie Dell Memorial Endowed Scholarship.

The support from that scholarship allowed me to dedicate my time to studying, which led to a competitive GPA and GRE score, so I was admitted during the early admission pool.

Scholarships have greatly impacted my life. They not only provided me with the financial support I needed to be successful, but also with encouragement. After receiving any scholarship, I felt like I had an even greater support system. Not only my friends and family were cheering me on, but scholarship sponsors were guiding me as well.

Sammie and Eunice Dell are both deceased now, but if I could talk to them in person, I would tell them how meaningful this gift of scholarship has been. I truly admire them for helping me and others reach our full potential. It was not only a huge impact financially, but it provided me with emotional support. I knew they believed in my ability to finish college and begin a successful career.

During my academic career, I have learned that keeping those who are your main supporters closest to you will make all the difference in the world. I want to thank Sammie and Eunice for being some of my biggest supporters during my time at UNI. Someday, I hope to give students that same type of support.

I now live in Clinton, Iowa, with my husband and am thoroughly enjoying my experience as an outpatient pediatrics physical therapist. I am able to help many people reach their physical potential.

To learn more about how you can support deserving students like Natalia, contact us at (319) 273-4665 or jane.halverson@uni.edu with any questions you might have.