TSBDC Cleveland

⭐️ First Generation Student Spotlight

Bryson Killian, a Business Management major from Cleveland, TN, is a proud first-generation college student who’s defining her tomorrow through education, entrepreneurship, and community. She is the co-owner of Take Root Studio, located in the Innovation Center on the Cleveland State campus. Take Root’s mission is to cultivate community through wellness, creativity, and herbal care, offering yoga, herbalism, and natural goods in a welcoming, intentional space.

Attending Cleveland State through the TN Reconnect program has lifted financial worries and allowed Bryson to focus on learning. She says CSCC is helping her fill in the knowledge gaps she once felt were missing. Coming from a troubled childhood with little guidance, Bryson admits that it could be isolating- but getting involved on campus and in the community has helped her feel deeply connected.

Her advice to others: “Show up. Show up anxious. Show up nervous. Show up worried. However you are- just show up. The rest will work itself out. You learn lessons when you show up. Sometimes, I just have to remind myself how far I’ve come!”