Heidi Toomey – Marine Science

"My educational adventure began when I looked at my life and realized that I had stopped growing. 
Then, on a day I will never forget, I received a phone call that was a life changing moment for me.  I was in my car, with the tank low on gas, wondering how I was truly going to move, attend graduate school and start my new life.  When I picked up the phone I was informed of being a recipient of the ARCS Scholar Award.  I felt wonderful emotions of elation, joy, relief and especially excitement!  I knew in that moment that nothing could stop me.  I knew what I wanted and where I wanted to go and now I had the opportunity to really do it!  The feeling was raw and beautiful!"