By Jeremiah Hatcher
The Paducah Sun
October 1, 2024
Used with permission.
Teriāel Edwards, this weekās Murray State University Teen of the Week, plans to pursue a degree in nursing science to become an advanced practice registered nurse, or APRN.
Edwards, a senior at Paducah Tilghman High School, maintains a 3.5 GPA. Sheās involved with several extracurricular activities, such as varsity track and field, African American Leadership Club, and the mentoring group B.L.U.S.H. Sheās also a student ambassador and a Berea College Scholar.
Edwards said sheās faced challenges in her life that at one time made it difficult for her to reach this level of school involvement.
āGrowing up, it was hard for me to like start living in my truth at a young age,ā Edwards said. āI will hide in my shoes and be too scared to let my talent and my intelligence shine. I went through many situations in the long run, and it built me to be better and stronger.ā
When it comes to higher education, Edwards hasnāt yet decided which college she plans to attend after graduation. But she does have a few in mind. Her top three choices are Tennessee State University, Austin Peay State University, and Kentucky State University.
Regarding her desire to become an APRN, Edwards said her passion for health care stems from a lengthy relationship with people within the field.
āGrowing up, all the females in my life loved helping other people and influenced me because everyone is in the medical field,ā Edwards said. āIām a strong believer that everyoneās feelings matter.ā
Patti Slankard, an English teacher at Paducah Tilghman High School, said Edwards has excelled both in and out of the classroom. Slankard said Edwards is extremely well-liked by her teachers and peers.
āTeriāel has a great thirst for knowledge and is very eager to learn new things,ā Slankard said. āShe knows the importance of education and has set the bar high. I know she is destined to accomplish great things, but more importantly, I know she is going to make a difference.ā
Edwards shared this piece of advice for her peers: āYou canāt live in fear. People are intimidated by it and attracted to confidence. If you live in fear, you wonāt be able to pursue your dreams, and will always have to, like, step outside the box.ā