Wynter grew up in Southeast, D.C., and selected CPE because she wanted to be part of an organization that would support and encourage her throughout the rest of her educational career. Wynter says, “I knew CPE was an organization whose goal was focused on the betterment of inner-city kids and helping them to achieve higher goals.” Now an alumna of the program, Wynter provides insight into the impact CPE had on her life and what she’s up to now.
What’s one memorable moment you have of you and your mentor?
That would be the 2014 Cap and Grown celebration. I was presented with the Most Improved Student award by my mentor, Ms. Regina Leslie. While introducing me, she started crying and I started crying, too! Throughout my high school matriculation, Ms. Regina stuck by my side. There were times when I struggled, but she was always there encouraging me to keep going even when I didn’t believe in myself. These were very emotional moments and it meant a lot for me and symbolized our strong bond. I have many memorable moments with my mentor from long talks about life to her attending my orchestra concert while in college.
How did your mentor help you with the college application process?
My mentor helped tremendously with my college application process. During the months that I was applying to colleges, my mom underwent surgery that kept her in the hospital for weeks. I was extremely out of my comfort zone not having my mom to go to when I immediately needed help. Ms. Regina had no problem assisting me with my applications, reviewing each essay, and making sure every packet was complete. My mentor definitely played a major role in my college matriculation, as well as with keeping in touch and assisting with anything I needed during that time. She was amazing.
What college did you go to and what career path did you choose?
I attended Hampton University where I received my Bachelors of Arts in Communicative Sciences and Disorders in 2018. I am currently completing my last year of graduate school at South Carolina State University where I will obtain a Master of Arts in Speech Pathology and Audiology in 2020 with plans to become a speech language pathologist.
In what ways has CPE impacted your life?
CPE has impacted my life in numerous ways! They taught me the importance of giving back to my community and even mentoring others to help instill a better future for our generation. From class trips, seminars, and even my study abroad trip to South Africa, CPE has helped me learn the value of bonding with people of various cultures and expanding my horizons.
What do you enjoy doing with your free time?
In my free time, I love to travel and attend concerts/festivals, binge watch Netflix, and do volunteer work around my community. I also enjoy learning new hobbies as I am currently practicing sign language and photography.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I ever received was from my mother during my undergraduate college years. Whenever I would feel discouraged or unsure about a new task in life, she always told me “Others before you have done it, what’s stopping you?”. This quote has driven me to know that with hard work, dedication and faith I can do anything I set my mind to because I am able!