Lane '21

The importance of a college education was emphasized to Lane '21, a junior from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, throughout his childhood. He values the strong sense of community he enjoyed in his hometown, and was encouraged by his cousin, fellow Berea student Gabriel '20, to look into attending Berea College. With the Tuition Promise Scholarship, Berea opened doors for Lane that otherwise may not have opened.

"Berea College gave me an opportunity like no other school," said Lane. In addition to academic studies, Lane has been a student athlete, and has engaged in various labor positions.

The learning curve to adjust from high school to college proved to be challenging, according to Lane. He utilized the many resources available to him at Berea, and found the required general studies courses very engaging. "The more involved I became, the more I realized school was helping me a lot, and the more interested I got," said Lane. "It's huge to create an environment where students want to learn."

Lane shares that the labor program offers students advantages as they prepare for life after college. He has worked in Accounts Receivable, the Office of Major and Planned Giving, and in the Sports Information Office. He praises the program for teaching him about the importance of teamwork, adaptability, accountability, time management and the expansion of a strong work ethic. He appreciates the transferrable skills he has developed, which he says will help him succeed in school and in life. A hard worker, Lane said, "Time management is one of the biggest things that's going to help in the future."

A Communications major, with a minor in Broadcast Journalism, Lane continues to work in sports information this year, which he is confident will provide a strong foundation for his future aspirations. As a former Berea College basketball player, Lane's passion for the sport and his chosen career path are strongly intertwined.

Lane, a donor himself, knows that his experience was made possible by donors. "Without this opportunity, I don't know where I'd be. I couldn't imagine my life without Berea, honestly. It has changed my whole path and direction, and I know I wouldn't be here without the donors."

"Because the school gave me an opportunity like no other place, I want to give back that same opportunity to help another student," said Lane. "I want to spread a positive message and help inspire others; I just want to have a positive impact no matter where I go."