2019 was the first year we were able to offer a scholarship to Upswing users thanks to the generosity of one of our initial investors — John and Linda Bohnel. It was John’s passion for education that inspired this new annual tradition with hopes of providing a deserving college student with much needed financial assistance.
One of our first Upswing winners was Shintorrius Turner, whose deep determination showed that she could get through anything.
Shintorrius grew up in North Memphis where life was not always easy for her. Despite her surroundings of gang violence, late night shootings, and other unfortunate circumstances, she was able to excel in school. As a first-generation college student, it was Shintorrius’ mom’s love and strength that has powered her through her life’s difficulties.
In March of 2017, Shintorrius was an innocent bystander shot during a drive by shooting, leaving her wondering if she would ever walk again. Through the support of loved ones, friends and her university, she overcame this tragic experience and was back in school after only three weeks! One semester later her injuries had healed and her grades were back on track.
Fast forward to 2020, and things have continued to improve for this determined young woman. Her GPA is above a 3.0 and she has declared her major in Hospitality and Resort Management. She is also a member of the National Society of Leadership & Success. From the leadership skills she’s learned from that organization, she was elected to be the Director of Communications in Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International. Despite the many adversities Shintorrius experienced, she has been molded into a determined individual and continues to be stronger than ever.
We wanted to catch up with Shintorrius and find out where life has taken her since the Upswing scholarship. Here is what she had to share:
1. What were some of your initial reactions when you found out you were an Upswing scholarship winner?
This was the first outside scholarship that I was awarded. Thankfulness and surprise were my initial reactions. Outside scholarships are very competitive for applicants. Without a doubt, I felt accomplished because no matter how many scholarship applications that I completed, I didn’t stop trying. Thank you Upswing!
2. How has winning the scholarship impacted your life?
The entire Upswing team and Mrs. Linda Bohnel made this scholarship special. Being able to share my story and hearing the story behind this scholarship encourages me to start a scholarship fund for students in the future!
3. What are you up to now?
Now, I am a senior at The University of Memphis, and I will be graduating in May. Currently, I am working part time in the Career Services department and at Hampton Inn. Also, I am the president of the collegiate chapter of the UofM Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI). Recently, our chapter won the 2019 Frank W. Berkman Collegiate Chapter of the Year Award.
4. If you had any advice for future scholarship applicants, what would it be?
Take the initiative to capture all the opportunities that you possibly can and utilize your resources as a student. Never be afraid to ask for help or clarification for things that aren’t clear to you. Above all, make a habit to step outside of your comfort zone. Be the best you that you can be!
Shintorrius is a senior at the University of Memphis and is set to graduate in Spring of 2020. She is a member of the National Society of Leadership & Success and was elected to be the Director of Communications in Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International. She currently works for UofM in their career services department and helps guide other students through their career journey.
