Kalie Reed, a sixth-year senior at UNT majoring in International Security and Diplomacy, aspires to work for a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for immigrants before eventually joining the United States Air Force. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, she withdrew from the university just two months shy of graduation.
MORNING ROUTINE DENTON- To complete Reed’s morning routine, she applies makeup and styles her hair on April 1, 2024 before going to her senior level classes at UNT. “One of my favorite parts of the day is when I put on makeup. It makes me feel more like myself and helps boost my confidence.” Reed said. Photo by Alaina Jones
PROPER EXERCISE- Kalie Reed, 23, a dedicated and disciplined individual routinely begins her day with her favorite pilates workout at Quakertown Park on April 1, 2024. Photo by Alaina Jones
WORK, WORK, WORK- Handcuffed to her matcha latte, Reed, greets her coworker, Linda Ncub, after arriving at the Lance Thompson Elementary school on April 1, 2024 in Argyle for work. While Reed enjoys working with the students, conducting lesson plans, and foster a fun outdoor playground environment for the kids to connect, she ultimately plans to utilize her degree in International Studies with a concentration in International Security and Diplomacy work for a non-profit organization that will improve quality of life for immigrants and eventually join the United States Air Force. Photo by Alaina Jones
ONE STEP AWAY- Found at the UNT Willis Library on May 5, 2024, Reed is submerged into her work, as she completes her last study session of the semester. By Alaina Jones
STOMPING AROUND- On an afternoon stroll, Reed notices a “For Rent” sign has been posted outside of her current housing on May 3, 2024, further symbolizing the transitional state she is in. “I feel sad because I am supposed to be moving out on my own this semester and graduating but I am not,” Reed said. Photo by Alaina Jones
CROSSED WIRES- Her desk is covered in her essential items, text from her studies, favorite books, Nintendo Switch, headphones, sunglasses and more on April 1, 2024. “My desk is like a safe space for me. It is where I read, journal, study and relax,” Reed said. Reading helps quiet her mind, journaling helps her process emotions, and playing video games helps her find a peaceful escape from her day to day life. Photo by Alaina Jones
COMFORT- Sisters Kalie Reed and Nikki Pino hold Nikki's first born child, Emory, on Feb. 27, 2024 as she cries in an attempt to comfort her. Photo by Alaina Jones
DREAMS INTERRUPTED- Reed holds her beloved cat, Beans, on May 6, 2024 after a long day at her home. “It is hard to not be graduating this semester. I feel like I pushed all of my life plans on hold, but I think everything happens for a reason and maybe I just need this time period to grow and appreciate where I currently am and the meaningful connections I have made along my journey.” By Alaina Jones
THE GRADUATION THAT NEVER CAME- She pauses on the way home from the UNT Willis library on May 5, 2024 and reflects as she was not able to graduate this semester. Photo by Alaina Jones
DEGREES OF CHANGE- Reed laughs as her roommate, Ariana Bernard, brushes her hair before bed on April 2, 2024. Bernard and Reed have a deep connection as they have been friends since the beginning of high school. Photo by Alaina Jones
