Local valedictorian and incoming Honors College Eagle awarded Gates Scholarship funded by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

Incoming freshman Jaida Bedgood won’t be new to Georgia Southern this fall. She’s been part of the Eagle family since high school.

“When I was in 10th grade, I started dual enrollment at the Armstrong Campus. I just loved the tight-knit and community-based atmosphere. And I was like, you know what? I’m already an Eagle. This is my school,” she said. 

Graduating at the top of her class from Alfred Ely Beach High School, Bedgood learned she had been chosen for the highly selective scholarship while at work. She recalled the moment she briefly checked her emails, discovering her acceptance. 

“I was about to take my lunch break, and I realized that I had two email notifications. When I looked further, I noticed the ‘congratulations’ at the top of my screen. My coworker comforted me, because I couldn’t help but cry a little,” Bedgood remembered. 

Launched in 2017 by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Scholarship provides total coverage of the cost of attendance for college, including tuition, fees, housing, meal plans, transportation and additional personal expenses. Thousands of students apply each year, only a fraction are selected for the scholarship.

“I was still in shock when I got home,” Bedgood continued. “I remember calmly telling my mom, Ashley, I had been chosen. She was overjoyed. I’ve always been able to call my mom when I need the support. She’s always there for me whether I need advice or someone to just listen. Both of my parents, my sister and best friend are a major part of my journey.”

Bedgood will officially begin her undergraduate degree in biology in less than a month. But her work in the Savannah community has already begun, serving as an active member of the NAACP. In addition, she’s already secured her first internship opportunity. Last April, Bedgood attended the Big Tide Summit, earning the opportunity to be a “Big Med for the Day” participant. In August, she will shadow physicians at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta. 

Bedgood will also enter the Georgia Southern Honors College and be part of the first freshman class to experience the Center for Forensic Sciences. According to Bedgood, the numerous opportunities for learning and networking are both exciting and invaluable. 

“I’m looking forward to the internships and undergraduate research opportunities provided by the Honors College. My goal is to become a doctor, and I plan on going into forensic pathology in the future. I saw the announcement of the center on the local news, and it made me even more confident in my decision to choose Georgia Southern – like it was made for me.”

For other students hoping to follow in her footsteps. Bedgood says it’s important to remember that your future self will be thankful for the person you are today. 

“You have to think about where you came from and where you want to go,” she said. “What do you want out of life? You’re doing this for your future self, and your future self will thank you.”