Meet Point Community College Scholarship Recipient Jolina Barron

Which community college are you currently attending?

Northland Pioneer College

Which program are you pursuing and what about the subject intrigues you most?

I'm currently pursuing an Associate's Degree of Arts and what intrigues me the most is the sociology and anthropology classes that I've been able to take. I love to learn about different cultures and people so I've really enjoyed classes like Ethnicity & Race and Cultural Anthropology.

What are your education and career aspirations?

After I get my A.A. degree, I'm transferring to Northern Arizona University to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work. Ultimately, I'd like to work with a program that helps homeless LGBTQ+ youth find housing, develop career skills, or pursue an education, such as The Trevor Project.

What is a fun fact about you that few people know?

I can tie a cherry stem with my tongue.

What is your favorite book/movie/song and why?

My favorite song is "Hold Tight!" performed by Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Tich.

It's my favorite song because it is included in the soundtrack of my favorite movie, Death Proof (2007). The song and the movie are nostalgic to me because I would watch the film with my mom and reminds me of a good time in my life. (Plus, Rosario Dawson is absolutely stunning!)

What is your current favorite streaming binge and why?

I just finished rewatching Season 7 of RuPaul's Drag Race and moving on to Season 8. I'm a drag race superfan and I'm also a sucker for crime shows, so I'm also watching Criminal Minds and Hawaii Five-0.

In your spare time, what do you enjoy doing?

I really enjoy reading for personal study. I'm currently reading a book called Moon Magic written by Diane Ahlquist. I'm also learning a bit of divination and how to read tarot cards. To keep myself active, I've picked up skateboarding, and although I can barely ollie it's a lot of fun.

How are you practicing self-care during this difficult time?

I've been trying to get into the habit of meditating every day. Sometimes it can be hard when my schedule is really busy, but whenever I find the time to just slow down and practice mindfulness my day tends to go a lot better and it helps me de-stress.

How are you adjusting to remote life and what are your tips to stay motivated?

I'm a bit of an introvert so adjusting to remote life hasn't been too hard. But even introverts get lonely sometimes so I try my best to keep in touch with my friends and family through FaceTime and other means. As far as school goes, I find that the best method for me is to plan out my homework and tests on a calendar so I don't miss anything. I've also taken this time to go to my professor's office hours via Zoom meeting when I don't understand a topic or need to ask questions which was something I didn't normally do before remote life.

As a Point Community College Scholarship Recipient, what is your message to other LGBTQ+ students?

Never be afraid of showing the world who you are! I know being an LGBTQ+ person can be scary at times when we feel judged by others. During my high school years, I couldn't be very vocal or honest about my identity and passions because I lived in a rural community with generally harsh views on the LGBTQ+ community. In the past two years, I've tried to grow past caring about the disapproving opinions of others and living my life for myself. I've found that when you do that, you can find other like-minded people who can support and inspire each other. Three years ago, I thought I'd have no chance of attending college but since then I've found myself included in the Point Foundation family and pursuing my degree.