Jason Hill

For Jason Hill, the opportunity to attend college has opened up a world of possibilities he never imagined growing up. As the first person in his family to graduate from high school and go to college, Hill overcame difficult circumstances to enroll at Emory & Henry, where he is a standout football player and outstanding student leader. At Emory & Henry, he has found a caring academic community where faculty, coaches and staff are available to offer support and extra help when needed.

“From the day I stepped foot on campus, I was challenged to take responsibility for not only myself, but also to lead others,” says Hill, a senior from Hickory, N.C. “I accepted that challenge and ran with it. Emory & Henry is a place that’s filled with people who care about your growth and success.”

Hill hopes to someday work with people trapped in the cycle of poverty and crime, with a special interest in helping juvenile and adult offenders to turn their lives around. He volunteers for several non-profit organizations, and helps teach GED (graduate equivalent diploma) classes in the regional jail.

“I’ve always had an optimistic view on the ability of people’s improvement because I wouldn’t be at this school if others didn’t believe in me too. I feel fortunate to be in the position I am in right now,” says Hill, who may join the U.S. Army Reserve while exploring graduate school. “I also feel a sense of duty to give back and share my knowledge so that less fortunate people and communities have more of a chance to succeed.”