With help from an MCF scholarship, Karla King is turning her studies in psychology into a future of advocacy and support for adolescent girls.

On quiet evenings, after her daughter has gone to bed, Karla King spreads her textbooks across the kitchen table. She guards this time carefully; it’s her chance to pursue a path she believes will one day change others’ lives. At the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee, she’s working toward a degree in psychology with the dream of opening a nonprofit teen center. She pictures girls finding strength through music and art, through mentors who listen.

“I want it to be a place where girls feel seen and supported,” Karla says. “Where they discover their own voice and believe in their value.”

Her own story contributes to that vision, as she knows how deeply early experiences shape the path ahead. Studying psychology has given her language for what she once felt; it’s sharpened her desire to support others who may be walking through the same, sometimes heavy, questions.

Her road has not been easy. Raising a daughter, full-time coursework, and financial strain has been a steady challenge. The scholarship from MCF has helped her breathe easier and focus on the future she wants.

“Knowing that someone believes in my potential has been just as meaningful as the financial support,” she says.

Karla often points to her daughter as her greatest teacher. Parenthood is a surefire way to learn patience and resilience, and Karla has seen how leading with love can impact someone’s story. These lessons have spilled over into her studies and her vision for the teen center.

She shares this encouragement with younger students: don’t get caught up in chasing a perfect timeline. Life bends and detours, but meaning can be found in those unexpected turns. Every challenge she’s faced has only strengthened her resolve. And just as important has been the encouragement tagging along.

“The support from donors has given me the space to focus on school and the confidence to keep going after my goals,” Karla says. “One day, I hope to give back in the same way, by helping others move on from their past and reach for a different future.”