Laura’s grandmother attained a Master’s in Nursing at a time when African-Americans couldn’t practice in most areas and her grandfather achieved a bachelor’s in social work then worked as a chef on a train to put himself through medical school. Stories of both their struggles taught Laura the value of education and the hard work is takes to accomplish you goals. Not long after losing her mother, Laura joined the U.S. Marine Corps, seeking direction on financing her education. In time, she earned the respect of her superiors and peers as a Marine. She was named recruit training honor graduate, received meritorious masts, and was awarded Squadron Marine of the Quarter.