For Miesha Robinson, achieving a college degree represents more than personal ambition; it embodies her commitment to securing a brighter future for her two-year-old son, Malachi. As a single mother, Robinson is pursuing a marketing degree with specializations in professional sales and digital marketing at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock). Her journey is significantly supported by the university’s Corporate Partnerships Program.
Robinson is among more than 400 students benefiting from this initiative, which provides a 10-percent scholarship on tuition, a $25-per-credit-hour book scholarship, and a waived application fee. The program aims to enhance access to higher education for working professionals, drawing from nearly 50,000 eligible employees across over 100 companies in Arkansas.
Robinson’s educational path has not been linear. She initially enrolled in college in 2012 while still in high school, taking concurrent credit and Advanced Placement courses. After a stint at the University of Arkansas, she faced significant challenges. In 2015, a serious car accident resulted in long-term injuries, ultimately forcing her to withdraw from her studies.
“I felt like no one cared about me,” Robinson recalled. “I was just another number. But when I came to UA Little Rock, everything changed. They treated me like a student who needed support, and that made all the difference.”
Currently, Robinson works at Yellow Rocket Concepts, where she balances various responsibilities, from serving tables to training new staff. Yellow Rocket Concepts operates popular venues such as Lost Forty Brewing and Big Orange. Robinson’s contributions are recognized; she features prominently on a billboard at one of the locations, which showcases her smiling face.
“The people I work with are incredibly knowledgeable,” she said. “I didn’t know how much science goes into making beer, and they’ve taught me to respect the industry.”
The support from Yellow Rocket Concepts extends beyond the workplace. Robinson appreciates their flexibility in accommodating her academic schedule and their encouragement to study during downtime. “They don’t expect me to serve tables forever,” she noted. “They are cheering me on, and they want me to succeed.”
Despite the demanding balance of work, school, and motherhood, Robinson is determined to graduate in Spring 2026. “Being a single parent makes it harder,” she admitted. “There are days when I feel overwhelmed. But my son motivates me. I want to build a better life for him.”
Robinson has ambitious plans for her future. With backgrounds in both marketing and insurance, she aspires to establish her own business that integrates both fields—an advertising agency with an insurance component. “I want to create opportunities, not just for myself, but for my son and others who come after me,” she stated.
She believes that her degree will unlock doors that might otherwise remain closed. “College is about more than just education. It’s about discipline, networking, and setting yourself up for a better future,” Robinson explained. “UA Little Rock has put me in a place where I can make connections and grow in ways I never imagined.”
As Robinson continues her journey, she acknowledges the obstacles she has faced, including health issues and financial strains, yet remains resolute in her pursuit of success. “It’s not for the weak,” she remarked. “There are sacrifices, and I regret not getting back on track sooner. But I know that education gives me a chance at a better future.”
Robinson credits UA Little Rock for helping her navigate these challenges by providing support in childcare and connecting her with financial resources. “They’ve made sure I didn’t fall through the cracks,” she asserted. “They’ve given me the chance to keep going.”
Robinson hopes her journey will inspire others who encounter similar challenges. “If you’re struggling, don’t give up,” she urged. “Find the support you need and keep pushing forward. Education changes lives. I know because it’s changing mine.”
