Name: Erika Ray
Where are you from?: Chicago
What is your favorite field of study/topic: Writing/History (African)
Describe yourself in three words.
Bold, optimistic, caring
What does being a part of NPEP mean to you?
Being a part of NPEP feels like incarcerated women are finally being seen as valuable enough for an investment in our education, and I am able to have a bigger and bolder vision for my future through having this opportunity.
Why did you decide to apply to NPEP and what are you most excited about?
I decided to apply to NPEP because there are no other avenues for educational opportunities for those of us serving longterm sentences. I am most excited about learning new things and getting to step outside of prison through these classes.
What is something you would like people to know about you as a student?
I love education. I think that education, and furthering my education, allows me to have a more focused vision for myself. As a student, it is my intention to do and be my best.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be?
There are so many people, but first my daughter. Second would be Ntozake Shange–I would love to ask her about her writing process. She wrote a piece, “Crack Annie,” and it’s so painful to read; I wonder if it’s about her life or someone she knew.