Silent Strength: A Black Deaf Woman's Quest for Knowledge in Bloomington, MN

The road to pursuing my doctoral degree was filled with obstacles, uncertainty, and moments of deep frustration. Twice, the financial challenges threatened to derail my aspirations despite my relentless efforts to secure funding through loans and scholarships. Each setback left me questioning whether to continue or to be content with the accomplishments I had already achieved. I found strength in verse... "but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint' (Isaiah 40:31). This chapter explores the difficult choices, I had to make, the moments of doubt, and the determination that ultimately pushed me to persevere in the face of adversity.