This First-Gen, PV Grad’s advice for students: Find your ‘yes’

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (May 13, 2025) - When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted daily life and society worldwide, Prairie View A&M University senior Jazmine England built her own care team of support.

The first-generation college student entered University with plans to become a medical doctor, but the pandemic disrupted her college career.

Left without hands-on experiences, community, or mentorship at the height of lockdowns, England decided she would not wait for the system to save her but to become her own champion.

"I learned to advocate for myself and others, carving out space for students like me who needed more than just resources," said the 23-year-old. "We needed a real connection."

Now, England is set to earn her B.S. in biology with a minor in health in May. Along the way, England, who was raised by a single father, found family on campus and even discovered cousins who also attended the University.

She graduates this spring, leaving her own mark: She has served as charter president of PVAMU Toastmasters, president of Sisters Improving Sisterhood, secretary of the Campus Activities Board, and recreational manager at the Student Rec Center, among other leadership and volunteer positions.

England highlights founding PVAMU Toastmasters as a special achievement.

"It gave me the opportunity to build something lasting and empowering for future students," England said. "These roles helped me step out of imposter syndrome and into impact."

Next, she plans to pursue a master's in health administration with the goal of becoming a hospital CEO who can change the "broken" healthcare system. Ultimately, she hopes to serve communities that are often overlooked and create policies that enable a system that truly cares.

"I discovered that decision-makers in healthcare, especially African American leaders, are underrepresented, and I want to change that narrative," England said.

England is thankful for all Prairie View A&M has done for her these past four years.

For example, as a peer health educator, England was introduced to Dr. Tondra Moore, executive director of Health Services at PVAMU, whom she describes as a key influence in shaping her career path and future aspirations.

England is also thankful for Murray Grant, assistant director of Recreational Sports for the Student Recreation Center, where she was able to learn and sharpen her skills in building operations management. That hands-on experience also gave her a taste for health administration, she said.

Now with her degree and strong background in the basics of biology and health, England says she'll step confidently into the healthcare field with the critical thinking skills and complex discipline she expects will help her thrive in fast-paced environments like hospital settings.

As she looks ahead, England offers this advice to current students: It's never too late.

"A 'no' today doesn't mean a 'no' forever," she said. "It just means it's time to find your 'yes.'"

Click here to view a complete listing of this semester's notable graduates.

By Christine Won

-PVAMU-