From Rags To Riches: The Life And Times Of Oprah

Straightening Out

@thabie_ngcobo / Instagram

Vernita was fed up with the rebellious Oprah, so she sent her off for good to live with her father in Nashville. Under her father Vernon’s strict but supportive guidance, Oprah began to excel. She grew into an honors student who was voted Most Popular Girl In School. She participated in pageants, eventually winning the title of Miss Black Tennessee at the age of 17.

Oprah had joined her high school speech team and with the skills she learned, was able to win an oratory contest and secure herself a scholarship to college. Oprah studied communications at Tennessee State University. It wasn’t long before Oprah would stumble upon her passion in life.