DOTHAN – When Hurricane Katrina left New Orleans under water last year, Troy Scott made a promise to herself. These days she is fulfilling that promise at Troy University.

After taking time out to raise a family, the New Orleans native had been working toward an education degree at Southern University when Katrina came ashore. While the hurricane battered Scott’s home and forced her family to flee, nothing could destroy her desire to earn an education.

“I was doing extremely well, and then the hurricane hit,” Scott recalled. “After being out of school so long, I was not going to let anything keep me from going to college.”

In October, shortly after arriving in Dothan, Scott was able to enroll in the fall B mini-session at Troy University. She is currently thriving in her second semester at the Dothan Campus.

“Mini-sessions were new to me,” Scott said. “I am so grateful for the eight-week sessions, because I don’t feel like I am so far behind now.”

Fortunately, Scott was able to easily transfer her financial aid. As a hurricane survivor, Troy University also offered Scott in-state tuition.

TROY art instructor Gayle Nelson saw Katrina’s devastation first-hand as she assisted in Mississippi relief efforts. Nelson was immediately impressed by Scott’s determination to rebuild her life.

“Her hardy resilience and cheerful attitude are an inspiration to other students,” Nelson said. “I have truly enjoyed having Ms. Scott in my visual art class.”

Scott feels it is no accident she found her way to Dothan and Troy University, which coincidentally shares her first name. She expects to remain in Dothan at least long enough to earn her degree.

“I believe it was fate,” Scott said. “I do believe this is my set place for this particular time in my life. In New Orleans, I worked two jobs and went to school. It was overwhelming. I have the opportunity now to go to school full-time, which is something I had prayed for. God is providing.”

Scott says support from the community has also helped her feel at home in the Wiregrass. Northview Christian Church “adopted” Scott, her children and several members of her extended family. The Church, which helped the refugees find housing, continues to offer assistance.

“I have a home in New Orleans,” Scott said. “I have been back several times to deal with the adjustors. Who knows, I like it here. I may make this my permanent residence.”