By Suzy Alstrin
With Reinhardt University’s class of 2025 commencement just six weeks away, a mother-daughter duo reflects on being among over 200 graduates who will celebrate their academic milestones on May 2nd. Rhonda and Makala Young (RU-2025) possess a bond, made stronger by mutual support as they earned their degrees simultaneously.
“The best part about attending college with my mother is seeing her on campus and seeing her thrive,” said Makala. “I love to see the look on people’s faces when they realize we’re related and going to school together. Her transition to a new career path after 20 years is something I will always respect her for.”
A shared passion for giving back to their communities led them to pursue education and nursing degrees. Makala plans to teach history after finishing student teaching at Etowah High School. Rhonda completed the nursing program in December and now works to complete an emergency room residency at Northside Hospital Cherokee.
After driving a Cherokee County school bus for 18 years, Rhonda found her calling to work in healthcare while caring for her husband during a serious illness. For seven years, she pursued her bachelor’s degree while working full-time as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). “I was told I wouldn’t be able to do that. But I did it,” explained Rhonda. “The last two semesters I worked seven days a week, whether it be school, clinicals, or my job.”
At her pinning ceremony, Rhonda received the esteemed DAISY Award (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) which honors nurses who go above and beyond in the care of their patients. She added, “My proudest moment is seeing my family at my pinning ceremony and supporting me.”
At first, Makala also pursued the medical field but explained she found a love for history and her true calling, “Teaching was the route I was destined for. Helping a child to realize they love learning or that they are smart enough to ‘get’ something is one of the best aspects of teaching. Providing a loving environment where students can grow and develop into adults is my ultimate goal.” She looks forward to teaching 8th grade at Teasley Middle School in Canton, Georgia in the Fall.
Makala credits Reinhardt’s professors and scholarships with helping her succeed. She expressed gratitude for receiving the Lettie Pate Whitehead, Pitts Foundation, and Academic Achievement Scholarships. Without them, she says she wouldn’t have had the professors who provided her with the attention, support, and inspiration to succeed. Her achievements include inductions into both the history and education honor societies.
As both women enter their new careers, Rhonda and Makala say the programs at Reinhardt prepared them to succeed.
