Layla Gross, a first-year student from Medford, Oregon, is carving a unique path for herself at SOU. As a first-generation scholar with a passion for business and an ambition for leadership, Layla is incredibly grateful for the Lithia & Driveway scholarship that has made her academic dreams a reality.  

A Local Pathway from Medford to SOU  

Hailing from Medford, Oregon, Layla’s high school years were a whirlwind of athletic pursuits, extracurricular activities, and academic rigor. She embarked on her athletic journey with cheerleading, later branching out to tennis and gymnastics, demonstrating a versatile talent. Her passion for gymnastics culminated in becoming a coach for Level One to Four gymnasts, where she discovered a natural ability to mentor and inspire young athletes. 

A Bright Future in Business  

Layla demonstrated a strong academic commitment in high school, proactively taking college-level courses during her senior year. While she applied to multiple colleges and diligently sought scholarships at her high school, she faced initial setbacks in securing significant financial aid. Nevertheless, undeterred by these challenges, she took the initiative to explore alternative avenues. As a result, by proactively seeking guidance from SOU’s admissions office, she discovered the Lithia & Driveway scholarship, a pivotal opportunity that would ultimately shape her academic trajectory. 

Layla is pursuing a business degree with a concentration in management and a minor in marketing. In fact, one of her favorite courses so far has been statistics, taught by Professor Mark Siders. Layla admires Siders’ teaching style, which she describes as “hilarious and engaging.” His ability to make complex concepts accessible and enjoyable has made the course a highlight of her academic experience.  

SOU Supports First-Year Transition 

Layla has found the transition to college life at SOU to be remarkably smooth, thanks in large part to the supportive academic environment. Her advisors have been consistently accessible and helpful, providing guidance and encouragement throughout her academic journey. 

Additionally, she has encountered numerous kind and accommodating professors who have fostered a positive learning atmosphere. This supportive network has significantly contributed to her overall academic success and well-being. Consequently, as part of the Lithia & Driveway cohort, she has had the opportunity to network with other aspiring business leaders and participate in professional development with her cohort.   

The Transformative Impact of Scholarship  

The scholarship Layla received has been transformative. It has alleviated the financial burden of higher education and has opened doors to new opportunities and experiences. She explains,

“It’s been incredibly rewarding to connect with other scholarship recipients. We’ve formed a supportive community, sharing our experiences and aspirations. It’s inspiring to be surrounded by such talented peers.”  

Beyond the financial benefits, the scholarship has empowered Layla to pursue her passions with confidence. She feels more motivated to excel academically, knowing that her hard work is being recognized and supported.   

Layla shares,

“Receiving this scholarship has been a dream come true. It has given me the opportunity to focus on my studies and pursue my goals without financial stress. I am incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement I have received from my family, friends, and the SOU community.”  

The Next Generation of Leaders  

With her sights set on a career in business, Layla aspires to become a CEO. She believes that her business degree, combined with her strong work ethic and leadership skills, will equip her to succeed in the corporate world. She’s particularly interested in the intersection of technology and business, and she’s excited to explore emerging trends and innovations.    

Layla aspires to develop a diverse skill set during her time at SOU. She aims to enhance her public speaking abilities, recognizing the importance of effective communication in leadership roles. Additionally, she seeks to cultivate strong leadership skills, particularly in the areas of team collaboration and conflict resolution. By honing these skills, Layla hopes to become a well-rounded and influential professional.  

As can be seen, Layla’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of scholarships. As she continues her academic and personal development at SOU, she is well-positioned to make substantial contributions to the global business landscape and society as a whole.  

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