Determined to Succeed: Tamarah Ware
Writing all day, writing all night, that’s how Tamarah Ware spends most of her time. With enthusiasm like that, it’s no wonder this 19-year-old is already a junior at East Carolina University and making her way to the top.
Originally from Fayetteville NC, Ware grew up an only child with writing on the brain. Her mother, Wanda Hagins, recalls that Ware’s writing interest began with her ABC’s at age two.
“I kept her surrounded with books from an early age,” Hagins said in reference to their frequent trips to the library.
Hagins is a teacher in Fayetteville, and her father, Douglas Ware who retired from the military, works as a police officer in Georgia. Both Ware’s mother and father are supportive of her career pathway.
Ware’s boyfriend of nearly two years, Daniel is also supportive. He believes writing is a large part of her life. Daniel explains Ware’s confidence is her most attractive quality and thinks it will take her far in life.
Ware’s confidence and determination are what keep her going according to her mother. Hagins says Ware has always set goals, but also says Ware was a perfectionist when she was younger.
“She would have a fit if she didn’t make an A,” Hagins said.
These days Ware doesn’t stress about her grades as much, according to Hagins, but she still works hard.
Ware doesn’t have to work hard to express herself. She keeps notebooks and journals filled to the rim with her thoughts and ideas. Ware says writing allows her to blow off steam and gain perspective. When she’s angry or upset, she uses her journal as a diary.
Writing down her thoughts doesn’t leave Ware at a loss for words according to friend and former roommate, Ebrenyka Griffith. Griffith explains Ware is quiet and shy around people who she doesn’t know well, but is upbeat and lively around those closest to her.
Ware’s expressive nature allows her to speak her mind, especially when it comes to her eating habits. Ware says she detests garlic and onions.
Following her instincts, Ware has a concentration in print journalism and minors in merchandising at ECU. She is currently taking courses in grammar writing, visual merchandising, basic reporting, introduction to psychology, apparel and human behavior and a business and professional communications class.
Ware not only focuses on her academics, but also is an active member of several organizations. She is a member of the Public Relations Students Society of America (PRSSA), the Golden Key International Honor Society, and participates in ominance, a modeling group.
Griffith says Ware participated in high school activities as well. Ware and Griffith where in the marching band and ran track together. Griffith, describing Ware as kind and caring, says Ware would buy her breakfast sometimes in high school.
Although Ware is diligent about her work, she finds time to relax.
In her free time Ware enjoys writing of course, but also listening to music, and reading poetry. She finds the works of Lauryn Hill and Maya Angelou particularly inspiring. Ware watches a good dose of reality TV, saying “America’s Next Top Model” is one of her favorite shows.
In addition Ware makes time for her family, friends, and boyfriend. This August, Ware plans to travel to Haiti with Daniel to visit some of his family, most of whom she has not met before.
As of now Ware is working on her certificate of business and technical communications, as well as her undergraduate degree, and is searching for internships at several magazine companies.
After graduation Tamarah plans on moving to either Florida or Georgia to continue her writing career.
“In 10 years, I see Tamarah married and ahead of her peers,” said Griffith, who hopes Ware will keep in touch.
No matter what she decides to do, or where she decides to go, Ware says she wants to be successful and happy. Ware’s family and friends share that vision.
“She is going to do wonderful things in life,” said Hagins.
“I have always been extremely proud of her an admired her perseverance. She has always been self-motivated. By no means do I feel that she is perfect. She has her flaws as we all do, but, overall, she has made me a very happy mother. I honestly could not ask for anything better,” Hagins said describing Ware.
With her determination, creative talent, and the unwavering support from her family and friends, Ware is sure to be among the top, just as long as there are no onions.
Filed under: Classmate Profiles, Spring 2008