Cheretta Coppedge
Major: Journalism
Hometown: Bowie, MD

Nickname:
Rayah — my friends and family say I am a burst of sunshine, hence the nickname Rayah. I'm also called CeCe because those are my initials.

Name of High School and its Mascot:
Elizabeth Seton High School, Roadrunner

What I wanted to be when I grew up:
A singer just like Mariah Carey…I am her number one fan!

Best thing about being in college:
Discovering that with education your dreams can become a reality. I have been challenged by professors and students to become an enlightened individual about the world that is beyond Temple's campus. I don't think that I would have gained that experience anywhere but here.

Why I chose Temple:
Mainly because of the Journalism program — to be able to get right into your major as a freshman is rare for any University. As a freshman I was able to take Journalism courses right away and begin to discover and develop my talents.

Favorite campus hangout:
The Chop Shop on Liacouras Walk (a girl has to pamper herself) and the 7-Eleven for my morning coffee run.

Favorite food on campus:
In the basement of Tuttleman there is a great soup and salad café. My favorite salad to get from there is a Greek Salad with Honey mustard dressing on the side. (ummmmm-good)

What are your future plans?
I graduated on May 19, 2005 and was the Commencement Speaker for the School of Communications and Theater. I felt really honored and blessed to give the Commencement. Afterwards, I returned home to Maryland to work as a Public Relations Coordinator for the Health Department.