Issue link: http://catalog.e-digitaleditions.com/i/495385
DEAR JWU FAMILIES, If your student is completing their JWU education this year, you're probably wondering the same thing as me: Where has the time gone? It's hard to believe my daughter Jasmine Forbes '15 is a senior already. But here she is — and I couldn't be more proud! Finding the balance between challenging her to grow and supporting her throughout her collegiate journey was only compounded by the fact that she's in Charlotte and I'm in the Bahamas. I wanted Jasmine to stay in the Bahamas for at least two years before she went somewhere else for college because I felt that she was too young to move out on her own. I believe completing a couple of years at a local university helped her transition from our slow island life to the fast-paced city of Charlotte. I didn't want her to be overwhelmed, and I think approaching her college experience as we did helped make the change more gradual and manageable. The distance hasn't made this experience any easier, as the cost of a plane ticket has kept my visits to a minimum, but I have tried to support Jasmine however I can. She recently participated in the Fashion Society's Fashion Show and was the lead hair and make-up designer, handling everything backstage from training models to coordinating the lineup to styling hair and attire. With approximately 200 people in attendance, the pressure was on. To demonstrate my support from afar, I sent a few pieces from home to be incorporated into the show. Jasmine was thrilled — not only with the island flair, but also with the success of the fashion show. As we approach Jasmine's graduation, I'm glad I can look back on the last couple of years and know that I did all I could to support her decisions and endeavors. With both of us looking out for her best interest, I believe she has a firm foundation for future success. Warm regards, Shannelle Russell