Jenna Bruce’s decision to pursue speech-language pathology at Auburn University was deeply shaped by her family.

“Both of my parents attended Auburn, and I have grown up loving all that Auburn is and stands for,” she said.

Her passion for communication sciences stems from personal experience:  witnessing her grandmother navigate speech challenges after a stroke, supporting a younger sister with pronunciation difficulties, and watching her father manage a stutter.

“All of these people have served as an inspiration for me to help people overcome difficulties with communication disorders,” she said. “I truly want to do something that will impact the world and make it a better place in which to live.”

• University: Auburn University
• Area of Study: Speech-Language Pathology
• REALTOR® Sponsor: Jason Bruce

• University: University of Alabama at Birmingham
• Area of Study: Medical
• REALTOR® Sponsor: Edward Farrior

Drawn to the intersection of science and service, Ethan Farrior chose the University of Alabama at Birmingham for its strong support of future healthcare professionals — whether he pursues medicine, research, or both.

“I chose UAB because my desire was to work in the medical field in some capacity, either as a medical doctor or as a disease research scientist,” he said. “UAB has the facilities to help me no matter which path I take.”

With a double major in bioinformatics/genetics and genomic sciences, Farrior is preparing to contribute to the fast-growing field of biological data. He’s also preparing for graduate school by mentoring younger students, serving as a teaching assistant, and taking on leadership roles in student organizations.

“My hope is that I become a greater part of my community,” he said. “I plan to volunteer at a clinic for underserved people next semester because I want to know the people my work will impact.”

For Coleman Fullbright, starting college is about keeping options open while staying focused on what matters most — working hard and making smart choices.

“I chose Wallace so I am able to finish my prerequisites,” he said.

“I’m excited to meet new people, see new things, and learn new material.”

Currently weighing a future in agricultural or mechanical engineering, Fullbright is taking time to explore his interests and work hard — a lesson he’s learned through his early academic journey.

“Through high school I learned that nothing is free — everything you obtain must be earned through work,” he said.

• University: Wallace Community College
• Area of Study: Undecided

• REALTOR® Sponsor: Kayla Tice

• University: The University of Alabama
• Area of Study: Pediatric Dentistry

• REALTOR® Sponsor: Zakary Holman

Ruth Holman’s passion for dentistry began with a simple goal: to serve others — especially children — through healthcare. She plans to become a pediatric dentist and is majoring in biology to fulfill dental school prerequisites.

“My experience volunteering and interning with the HOSA program in dental offices helped me find my love for helping people and the community through dentistry,” she said.

Holman chose The University of Alabama for its standout pre-dental program and the chance to stay close to home while gaining leadership experience and giving back.

“I want to continue growing my passion for helping others, especially children, and strengthen my commitment to service through new experiences in college,” she said.

For Anna Jones, choosing a college came down to two things: a top-tier business program and the chance to join an exciting new band community.

“I chose my college because it has an amazing band program and a great business program for my degree,” she said.

“This supports my future goals by helping me learn more about business from a school known for its excellent business program.”

Inspired by a summer volunteer experience with a nonprofit, Jones hopes to use her business degree to build a career in that sector.

She’s already laying the foundation by taking courses focused on nonprofit work and continuing to give back through service.

• University: University of North Alabama
• Area of Study: Business

• REALTOR® Sponsor: Jeffery Jones

• University: University of Alabama
• Area of Study: Elementary Education

• REALTOR® Sponsor: Chelsea Jones

For Davis Jones, becoming a teacher isn’t just a career goal — it’s a lifelong calling shaped by personal experience and a deep belief in the power of education.

“I’ve always known I wanted to help children in some way,” she said.

“By becoming a teacher, I can make a direct and meaningful impact every day in the classroom, reaching students where they are and giving them the support they need to succeed.”

Prior to heading off to college, Jones has spent the past four semesters in the Education and Training program at Tuscaloosa Career and Technology Academy.

She also interned in both first-grade and kindergarten classrooms.

In addition to her teaching credentials, Jones is looking to earn a counseling degree to support students beyond academics.

From the moment he toured Auburn University’s campus — even just attending a football game— William Lawrence knew he belonged.

That sense of connection, paired with the school’s top-tier aviation program, made it the clear choice.

“Auburn has a leading collegiate aviation program with a multitude of resources at its disposal — not every college has an on-site airport and an A320 simulator,” he said.

Lawrence is already on his way to becoming a commercial pilot.

While finishing high school, he’s also earning his private pilot certificate at Pensacola International Airport and plans to transfer into Auburn’s Professional Flight program.

• University: Auburn University
• Area of Study: Aviation

• REALTOR® Sponsor: Jennifer Lawrence

• University: Auburn University
• Area of Study: Physical Therapy

• REALTOR® Sponsor: Natalie Mergell

Chase Mergell has always been fascinated by how the human body moves — and how science can help people recover from pain or injury. That curiosity, combined with a passion for helping others, led him to pursue physical therapy.

“I chose physical therapy because of my interest in the inner workings of the human body and how all of the muscles, bones, and ligaments work together to help our bodies move and function,” he said. “I want to help people with issues that limit their mobility or cause them pain.”

Mergell hopes to one day work as a physical therapist for a major sports team. He chose Auburn for its strong reputation and advanced facilities, where he plans to explore how different muscles and conditions affect athletic performance.

For Serenity Pate, business is more than a major — it’s a family tradition and a future goal. She chose Jacksonville State University for its strong business school and proximity to home, which allows her to gain hands-on experience while studying.

“Attending college within the proximity of my home will allow me to begin working in my family’s business while completing my college studies,” she said.

Inspired by her parents’ success in real estate, Pate is building a foundation in marketing and entrepreneurship with hopes of owning her own business one day.

She looks forward to growing in her leadership, faith and friendships throughout her college journey.

• University: Jacksonville State University
• Area of Study: Business

• REALTOR® Sponsor: April Pate

• University: University of North Alabama
• Area of Study: Real Estate Law

• REALTOR® Sponsor: Sarah Terry

Hailey Rogers always knew she wanted a college experience that felt close to home — in more ways than one. The University of North Alabama was a natural fit, offering both a welcoming community and a strong foundation for her career goals.

“Both of my parents attended the University of North Alabama and a lot of people from my school choose to go there because it is so close,” she said.

“Everyone I know who has attended has all said great things about it — so naturally it was my first choice.”

Rogers plans to become a real estate attorney and credits her early exposure to the field — attending closings with her grandparents — for sparking her interest in law.

Drawn to both the city and the program, Aidan Smith chose Auburn University for its reputation and resources in engineering.

“I like the city of Auburn, and the engineering program is phenomenal,” he said.

Inspired by a love of math, Smith looks forward to exploring the engineering field while building independence, work ethic and strong connections on campus.

He’s excited to grow academically and personally as he steps into this new chapter.

• University: Auburn University
• Area of Study: Engineering

• REALTOR® Sponsor: Shelley Arant

• University: University of South Alabama
• Area of Study: Engineering

• REALTOR® Sponsor: Lesley Stevens

For Madyson Smith, choosing a college came down to both heart and fit. After touring multiple schools, the University of South Alabama stood out for its supportive environment and excellent engineering program.

“After touring other colleges, South was the one that truly felt like home,” she said.

A high school environmental science class sparked Smith’s interest in engineering.

Now, she plans to pursue either civil or environmental engineering — with hopes of designing sustainable buildings or contributing to environmental preservation through infrastructure.

She’s most excited to gain hands-on experience and deepen her knowledge in the field.

Audrey Spurling chose Samford University for its community-driven atmosphere and faith-based environment. The school’s wide range of programs helped her feel confident in her decision — regardless of where her path might lead.

“I knew whatever I decided to do, Samford would be a place where I would have what I need to succeed,” she said.

Currently, Spurling plans to major in graphic design with a minor in music, blending creativity with purpose. She hopes to use her artistic gifts in a ministry setting, drawing from years of experience in choir, theatre, and serving at a church summer camp.

As she begins this next chapter, she looks forward to continuing her growth in confidence, faith, and connection with others.

• University: Samford University
• Area of Study: Graphic Design

• REALTOR® Sponsor: David Spurling

• University: University of Alabama at Birmingham
• Area of Study: Nursing

• REALTOR® Sponsor: Glenda Turlington

Lily Turlington discovered her passion for nursing through hands-on experiences in high school, where she participated in HOSA and health science classes.

“Through these classes, I have been able to do clinicals at the hospital and various offices. Getting to experience this made me want to pursue a degree in nursing, as I love the way they help people,” she said.

She chose the University of Alabama at Birmingham for its top-ranked nursing program and the opportunity to earn automatic admission through the dean’s scholar pathway.

With her sights set on becoming a nurse practitioner or certified registered nurse anesthetist, Turlington is focused on building the discipline and study habits needed to succeed in a demanding field.

For Bethany Womble, music has always been more than a passion — it’s been a source of growth, leadership and resilience. That’s why she chose Troy University, known for its outstanding music and education programs.

“Band has helped me grow as a person and as a leader, and it has gotten me through hard times,” she said.

“I want to have the opportunity to provide that for other students.”

Womble hopes to pursue a career in music education and has already established a strong foundation by completing AP Music Theory and dual enrollment classes. She’s excited to begin her college journey and explore the adventure of learning something she truly loves.

• University: Troy University
• Area of Study: Music Education

• REALTOR® Sponsor: Christy Womble

• University: Auburn University
• Area of Study: Anesthesiology

• REALTOR® Sponsor: Blake Wright

For Farrah Wright, Auburn University offered both a sense of home and a clear path toward her dream of becoming an anesthesiologist.

She’ll major in biomedical sciences with plans to attend medical school after graduation.

“Going to college at Auburn will allow me to complete my undergraduate and set me up for medical school,” she said.

Her interest in medicine was sparked in high school, where she attended medical conferences and shadowed doctors.

Wright looks forward to connecting with peers, growing her faith through ministry involvement, and continuing to develop the leadership and time management skills she began building in high school.