But navigating the application process felt overwhelming—especially for a teenager trying to do it on her own. Finding the support to make good grades in high school and to enroll and succeed in college is a barrier for too many young people.

With the support of Oasis Center’s Transitions and College Connection programs, Sharniqua enrolled full-time at Austin Peay. But when she unexpectedly lost her financial aid, she had to quit school and move back to Nashville—working 60 hours a week to help her family with bills.

She got back in touch with Oasis, which connected her with the Nashville Career Advancement Center. After several internships, she joined their staff as a research analyst. Now, with a steady job and the help of Oasis, she’s working on a plan to continue her education.