Tanner Hunter

Tanner Hunter is a student at Auburn University. Originally from Maplesville, Alabama, he studies animal science in preparation for veterinary school. Tanner was injured in December 2011 during a wrestling match, and underwent rehabilitation while finishing his high school diploma. He is most looking forward to added independence. Tanner says that a college education “will give me the opportunity to discover myself and experience what other able-bodied students my age are experiencing. A college education is not just an education or experience, for me it is an opportunity to change my life forever.”

Will Jirik

Will Jirik will start his senior year at Rhodes College this fall. He is from Cabot, Arkansas, and studies business commerce. Will sustained his spinal cord injury in July of 2012 after completing his freshman year at Rhodes, taking the following school year off to engage in rehabilitation efforts. His favorite thing about college is the opportunity to meet people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. “I am so grateful for the opportunity to continue my education at Rhodes,” Will states. He notes that his advisor, Dr. Planchon, and his fellow classmates “have followed my progress and been a huge source of encouragement.” Will plans to make the most of his years in college: “Where there’s a Will there’s a way!”

Kelly Blanton

Kelly Blanton is a junior at North Carolina State University studying animal science. An animal lover from an early age, Kelly has owned dogs and horses. Her hometown is Taylorsville, North Carolina. Kelly was injured during a rodeo accident in the summer of 2011. Her favorite part about college is the independence it provides, allowing her to live away from her parents. Kelly has already been pleasantly surprised by some classes she didn’t know she would enjoy, thanks to some great professors: “My biology, animal science, and public speaking professors have been my favorites so far. I didn’t expect to enjoy going to these classes, but they made them interesting and my professors seem to be passionate about making my first year of college successful.” In her free time, Kelly enjoys hanging out with her two-year-old nephew, Corbin.