Junior, Public Relations Major

A young Marine’s story of hard work, discipline, and growth.

Sawyer was drawn to College of the Ozarks because of the opportunity to work, rather than pay, for his education.

Ninety percent of C of O students demonstrate financial need and 100 percent of them work 15 hours per week at their assigned workstation in order to offset the cost of their education. The rest of the student’s cost is covered by the generosity of supporters across the United States.

Sawyer credits the Work Education Program for refining qualities in him — things like perseverance, determination, and hard work.

"College of the Ozarks Work Education Program has strengthened my grit and is helping me prepare for my future career."

He began his journey at The Keeter Center selling baked goods and coffee before moving up to be a server in Dobyns Dining Room.

“Both these positions taught me how to multitask, develop confidence, and promote our wonderful college.”

Sawyer’s diligence and hard work was noticed, and he now works in the College’s Public Relations Office. Through this office, he assists in media opportunities, writing press releases, advertising strategy, internal communications, and more.

Communication isn’t new to Sawyer; as a Marine he specializes in radio communications for his platoon.

“I shipped off to Marine Corps Boot Camp in June 2017. After graduating from boot camp, I attended the School of Infantry for one month before spending four months at the Marine Corps Communication Electronics School in 29 Palms, California. I now drill monthly out of Springfield, Missouri, where I run radio communications.”

Sawyer’s love of country is apparent in his service as a Marine and in his decision to attend College of the Ozarks, an institution known for its patriotic education.

“College of the Ozarks Patriotic Education Travel Program expanded my knowledge and love for the history of our country.”

Sawyer traveled to Washington, D.C., in 2019 for the College’s inaugural CitizenTrip® — a two day immersive trip into America’s rich history.

As he completes his time at Hard Work U. and faces his future, Sawyer’s confidence is contagious.

“My time at C of O has confirmed that God is the only one who satisfies my heart!”

Sophomore, Biochemistry Major

From an orphanage to Hard Work U., Ruth’s story has only just begun.

At the young age of six years old, Ruth’s mother passed away, forcing her and her young brothers to live with their grandparents. Faced with poverty, her grandparents were unable to care for the children and sent them to live at Hope for Orphans Rescue and Education Center (HOREC) in her native country—Kenya.

“Upon graduating from high school, despite having good grades, my hopes of continuing with higher studies were shattered. As a poor girl from an orphanage, without any relatives to rely on, I could not afford to pay for a college education in Kenya or anywhere else.”

Ruth was determined, and through her hard work and God’s grace, she was accepted to College of the Ozarks – and then, she was welcomed into a host family’s home in the United States.

“I am so thankful for my host family and College of the Ozarks. My hope to be a better person and to make other people’s lives better has been restored.”  Ruth dreams of being a scientist and every day she’s one step closer to making that dream a reality.

“I have wonderful professors who walk with me in my educational journey. The work education program has helped me build on my personality as well as learn to be comfortable working around other people.”

Ruth’s first workstation placement was the kitchen at The Keeter Center, the College’s fine dining restaurant, lodge and conference facility. Here she washed dishes, made food, and learned how to work as a team with her fellow students.

“Not only did I learn how to make American dishes, but I learned life lessons that I utilize in my everyday life.”

During her second semester, Ruth was recognized as one of the outstanding students at The Keeter Center and now works in the restaurant.

“I have learned I do not have to be perfect at something, but I can excel in it with determination, persistence, humility, and with God’s grace.”

While Ruth has worked incredibly hard, she’s also had a fun “first” while at C of O. “I saw and played in snow for the very first time in my life!”

Ruth plans to pursue a master’s degree in biomedical science upon graduation.