Christine Lehman got hooked on her field of study during her first drafting class in high school in Jefferson City.

“I love making up my own design plans and decorating,” she says. Her interest led her to get involved with the University’s chapter of American Society of Interior Designers; she is now president of that group. She’s also in Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society and has an impressive GPA.

Christine, who fills out scholarship applications each year, is currently a recipient of the Evelyn A. Porter Scholarship. “I am glad there are opportunities to receive scholarship assistance after your freshman year,” she says. “It’s a big help to my parents, and I know they are proud that I have good grades and work to keep them up. Knowing that I am helping them makes me feel good.” She says endowed scholarships assist students for their entire lives, not just for the four years on campus. “I realize that a lot of people can’t go to school without scholarships, and I really appreciate the support that I’ve received. College helps you prepare for a great future. After graduation, I would like to work for a firm or have my own clients — I plan to continually grow and have a successful career.”