Regina Sierra Carter will be an important force in South Carolina education in the not-too-distant future. While Sierra is currently focused on completing her studies for the bachelor's degree in English and entering law school, she plans a career in educational policy, with a specific and very personal goal of increasing higher education accessibility for minority and low income students in South Carolina.

A first-generation college student herself, Sierra began her studies at the University of South Carolina in the Opportunity Scholars program, where a supportive faculty and staff recognized and nurtured her intellectual talents, especially writing. She has distinguished herself at the University, becoming a member of the South Carolina Honors College, honing her research and writing skills in the Ronald E. McNair Scholars program, placing first in the McNair Scholars National Research Conference for the humanities/education division, and most recently, earning recognition as a finalist for the prestigious Truman Fellowship. As she looks forward to her final year as an undergraduate, Sierra has been named the recipient of the Rising Senior Award from the Department of English.

Sierra has used nearly every moment of her undergraduate experience in the College of Arts and Sciences preparing herself to realize her future, while at the same time, giving of herself. Sierra has served as the vice president of the University's chapter of the Golden Key International Honour Society, written for the Garnet and Black, participated in the Women's Mentoring Network on our campus, mentored other students as a resident hall advisor, and contributed her time and talent as a volunteer organizer for the Diversity and the Doctorate symposium. She continues to tutor younger classmates in the Opportunity Scholars program, helping them improve their writing.

The daughter of Jean Carter of Britton's Neck, SC and Ronald Carter of Murrells Inlet, SC, Sierra is grateful for the opportunities the University has afforded her. Discovering the excitement of scholarly research, participating in a national fellowship competition, and sharing her talents and knowledge have given her both a competitive edge and the realization that "regardless of where one comes from, everyone has the potential to succeed if only given the chance to do so with a strong support system." Sierra's advice to fellow students is simple, but compelling: "Strive to do more, think more, and be more." She has certainly heeded her own advice.

For her commitment to excellence, her accomplishments to date, and all that she will do and become, Sierra Carter is our April student of the month.

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