The COVID-19 pandemic has complicated the lives and educations of students around the globe and Midland College student Sydni Holder knows these challenges and has taken them in stride.
Graduating in 2019 from Greenwood High School, Holder was active in a variety of school activities, including theater, journalism and student council. Upon arriving at Midland College, she joined the Students in Philanthropy organization, as well as the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, where she currently serves as the chair for public relations.
Dr. Terri Gilmour, director of the college’s Honors Program, spoke highly of Holder.
“[Sydni] is an absolute dream student leader. Of course she is an excellent student, but her upbeat personality and her dedication to every endeavor she tackles is contagious to all around her. She is such an asset to Midland College," Gilmour said.
Holder shared similar admiration for Gilmour.
“Not only is Dr. Gilmour a great teacher, but also is a mentor. She has good advice for everyday life," Holder said.
Holder will be graduating this coming May from Midland College, and following graduation, she will attend Texas Tech in the fall to pursue a degree in history. Her career goal is to ultimately attend law school and become an attorney.
“I’ve always wanted to be a lawyer. I’m a fan of true crime. My mom wanted to be a lawyer, but life happened, and it didn’t work out for her. I guess it’s in my DNA," Holder said.
Throughout her studies, Holder has remained committed to her family. She travels twice a week to care for her grandfather, Jerry Floyd. Holder’s grandmother Billie Ruth Floyd was diagnosed with COVID-19 last summer, and passed away in July 2020. She also had difficulties finding part-time employment when returning to Midland this fall. After working 35 hours per week as a barista, Holder could not find available jobs upon returning for school.
Despite these challenges, Holder is optimistic for the future, and is excited to pursue her passions.