Impact Spotlight: Business major reflects on scholarship opportunities

Impact Spotlight: Business major reflects on scholarship opportunities

Friday, September 19, 2025

Media Contact: Mack Burke | Associate Director of Media Relations | 405-744-5540 | [email protected]

Julicia Thornton weaved her way through the massive crowd at Walkaround, trying to keep a generous distance from her parents. She wanted to feel like one of the college kids.

Growing up in Stillwater, Thornton has been immersed in Oklahoma State University tradition her whole life. She held her dad's hand when she met Pistol Pete for the first time, watched the Pom Squad perform at her elementary school assemblies and walked the high school graduation stage in Gallagher-Iba Arena.

The community has given her a sense of belonging, and she wasn't ready to leave it behind. Choosing OSU was the clear choice - to become one of the college students she always looked up to.

"As someone who grew up in Stillwater, I came in thinking I knew what to expect," Thornton said. "But actually, living it as a student has been a completely different and more meaningful experience."

Along with the support of her family, scholarships have been crucial to making Thornton's OSU education possible.

They've allowed her to pursue new opportunities on campus without the constant stress of financial pressure. She can better focus on her education and enjoy little things, such as late-night study sessions with friends and the ability to afford parking on campus.

"These moments might seem small, but they've become some of the most special parts of my journey," Thornton said. "I'm incredibly grateful for the way my scholarships have made college not just possible, but memorable."

She has had a passion for the world of sports from a young age, something that sparked when she first picked up a volleyball in second grade.

It was more than just a game for her. Thornton fell in love with the atmosphere, energy and behind-the-scenes dynamics. The volleyball court was her playground to enjoy it all, but ultimately, she had to accept she wouldn't continue playing at the college level.

But that realization didn't close a door; it opened one. As a business major with a minor in sports management, she strives to become a sports agent who helps athletes achieve their goals.

"I've always admired the hard work and dedication it takes to be an athlete, and I want to be someone who supports them beyond the game," Thornton said. "I'm especially passionate about helping young athletes navigate the business side of sports. My hope is to make a lasting impact by being a positive influence during some of the most important moments in their careers."

Throughout Thornton's life, her parents did everything they could to put food on the table and give their children a bright future. Scholarship support has not only lifted a weight off their shoulders but also provided more inspiration for her to turn their sacrifices into success.

"It's easy to think of scholarships as financial aid, but to me, this has been a reminder that people out there believe in students like me, even without knowing us personally," Thornton said. "That kind of support is powerful. It pushes me to work harder, stay grounded and never take a single part of this journey for granted."

Photos by: Bryanna Freer

Story by: Grant Ramirez | STATE Magazine