The dream of becoming a teacher has always been clear for Jaida Polite. The path to achieving it hasn’t always been easy. 

Now a P–5 Education Major in Cleveland State University’s (CSU) School of Education and Counseling (SEC) within the Levin College of Public Affairs and Education, Jaida is preparing to graduate this May. As she stands on the edge of the classroom career she’s worked so hard to build, Jaida points to CSU Giving Day and donor support as a major reason she’s approaching the finish line.

Jaida earned her associate degree from Cuyahoga Community College before transferring to CSU determined to continue her education and serve young learners in her community. The Bedford High School graduate knew the importance of education early on, but balancing tuition, living expenses and academic demands presented real challenges.

That’s where the PNC Last Mile Scholarship became life-changing.

“The PNC Last Mile Scholarship has really helped me,” Jaida said. “It’s helped me pay for my schooling. I’m in my final internship full-time, so I can focus on academics instead of worrying about working another job to pay other bills.”

Jaida is completing her Cleveland Teaching Fellowship (CTF) placement this Spring at William Rainey Harper in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD), gaining hands-on classroom experience while preparing for graduation. With a full-time internship and demanding coursework, the financial breathing room created by scholarships has allowed her to fully invest in her students, her studies, and her future.

Jaida credits CSU faculty and staff for helping her discover these opportunities, including Aimee Furio in the Office of Field Services, who encouraged her to apply for the scholarship, and Professor Sharon Swan, who mentored her through her early teaching rotations

“They have both helped me so much,” Jaida said. “I really wouldn’t be where I am today without that support.”

Jaida’s long-term goal is to become a full-time elementary school teacher and eventually earn her master’s degree.  That once distant dream now feels firmly within reach.

That’s why CSU Giving Day holds a personal meaning for Jaida.

“Any amount helps,” she said. “It’s the difference between being able to graduate or not. I know I wouldn’t be able to push to the finish line like I have. Donating on Giving Day can be the difference between a student reaching their dream of graduating or stopping them in their tracks.”

As CSU Giving Day approaches on Thursday, February 26, 2026, Jaida’s story reflects the real impact behind every gift which is to help students overcome obstacles, stay on track and step confidently into their futures. For donors, it’s more than a contribution. It’s an investment in educators, leaders and changemakers like Jaida Polite, whose journey proves that generosity truly transforms lives.