Mother overcomes challenges to graduate with son at UAHT
HOPE/TEXARKANA, Ark. (KTAL/KMSS)—At 18, Amber Walker became a single mom, which forced her to put her dreams of attending college and becoming a nurse on hold.
Amber had her son, Dawson Hinds, at a young age and raised him independently for years before meeting her husband.
'For a long time, I put my own goals on the back burner to focus on giving my children the love, support, and stability they needed,' Amber said. 'Once they reached a point where they were more independent, I finally felt it was time to do something for myself, and that's when I began my journey at UAHT.'
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Amber started at the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana (UAHT) at the same time as her son, who was 16 then. She said she felt inspired by their shared goal of education.
'Dawson was already a few steps ahead, having been part of the Arkansas High Collegiate Academy (AHCA) at UAHT since the 10th grade,' Amber said. 'Since Dawson already had some college experience, he never hesitated to help me when I needed guidance.
'At 34 years old, going to college with my high school-aged son was both humbling and incredibly rewarding. My path to higher education was not a straight one—I had to put it on hold to raise my children and focus on building a life for them. But I never let go of the dream. Though our journeys were different, Dawson and I shared a common goal of growth, perseverance, and lifelong learning. He brought youthful energy and a fresh outlook, while I brought life experience and determination. Together, we supported and inspired each other every step of the way.'
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Amber received multiple scholarships at UAHT and became a member of Phi Theta Kappa, showing her dedication to excelling in the classroom despite her challenges.
Dawson simultaneously earned an Associate of Arts degree and a high school diploma through AHCA at UAHT. He heads to the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville this summer, having earned over $24,000 in scholarships.
'My experience at the Arkansas High Collegiate Academy at UAHT was great,' Dawson said. 'The faculty and staff were always friendly, and the courses had excellent content to prepare me for the University of Arkansas. UAHT always prioritized the students.'
Free Classes at UA Hope-Texarkana available at select high schools
'Together we pushed through, supported one another, and accomplished a significant milestone side by side,' Amber said. 'Our journey proves that age is just a number, young or older, and that you should never let it define or limit what you can achieve.'
Amber and Dawson graduated together at 36 and 18, walking side-by-side across the commencement stage.
'It is one of the best feelings, graduating with my son and reaching our life goals together,' Amber said. 'Thank you, UAHT, for helping make this possible!'
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