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What happens when family traditions shape your college choice? Zemyria Jones, a top 20 finalist in the Takisha A. Davis Scholarship Competition, stands at this pivotal crossroads as she prepares to attend Tuskegee University while continuing her family's rich HBCU legacy.

This heartwarming conversation between host Monique Robinson and Zamyria's mother, Joletta Ellington, reveals the beautiful complexity of HBCU family traditions. As a first-generation college graduate herself, Joletta started the family's HBCU journey, which now continues through Zamyria's choice of Tuskegee over Alabama A&M (where other family members attended). Their story of "house divided" shirts during rivalry games and shared tailgating traditions showcases how these institutions foster both healthy competition and deep family bonds.

Beyond the campus experience, Zemyria's nursing aspirations reflect the service-minded values often cultivated at HBCUs. Her mother proudly shares how Zamyria will use her education to support their community, including helping her aging grandparents who live near campus. This powerful reminder of education's purpose - not just personal advancement but community upliftment - resonates throughout their conversation. Meanwhile, Joletta offers touching advice to other parents preparing for the empty nest: "Spend as much time as you can with your child while they're here with you."

As the scholarship competition enters its final voting phase (closing September 5th), this episode celebrates not just academic achievement, but the incredible support systems that help students thrive. Watch how the rigorous multi-stage process prepares students for real-world challenges while building essential skills in public speaking, interviewing, and self-advocacy. Cast your vote for Zemyria and other deserving finalists today and join us in supporting the next generation of HBCU excellence!

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