---

A Kentucky State University senior plans to teach English as a second language in China following graduation.

Chea Taylor, a history major from Bellbrook, Ohio, plans to travel to Nanjing, China for a 15-month contract with English First after graduation.

“I have no major commitments right now,” Taylor said. “I am young and ready to explore. To have the opportunity to do two things I love, teaching and traveling, are the major things that inspired me.”

Though her first contract is for 15 months, Taylor said she plans to continue teaching abroad for at least five years.

Taylor was a member of the Student Government Association, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the women’s basketball team and the women’s track and field team.

Taylor said she chose Kentucky State because it is an HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities), she had the opportunity to play basketball, she loved the campus and everyone made her feel welcome.

She said her family, especially her two younger sisters, has motivated her to finish her degree.

“I want them to see that if I can do it, so can they,” Taylor said.

Taylor said her best advice to current and future students is to take advantage of office hours with professors.

“Carry yourself as a professional when you are on campus,” Taylor said. “Look at every opportunity as a job opportunity. That is why you’re here: enter to learn and go out to serve.”

Taylor encouraged those pursuing a degree to keep pushing for success.

“It doesn’t matter how long it takes,” Taylor said, “as long as you finish.”