Very early on in middle school, I heard about the Universities at Shady Grove (USG) through an after-school program I was in. In high school, I was encouraged by my Achieving Collegiate Excellence and Success (ACES) coaches to enter through the 2+2 transfer pathway by completing my Associate's from Montgomery College (MC), then transferring to my desired program offered by a top Maryland university at USG. Since I was exposed to USG so early on and it came so highly recommended by my mentors, I decided that this would be an amazing option for completing my bachelor's degree. Other reasons that drove my decision were financial — attending my program at USG was affordable, and even offered double the scholarship opportunities. Now, I am a proud to be a University of Maryland, College Park (UMCP) Communication student at USG.
When I entered USG, I made it my mission to get more involved in student life and campus events. As a full-time student, it is difficult to manage your academic, professional and social life, but at USG, the student clubs and organizations are very accessible and easy to join! I am also a USG Student Ambassador and the Social Media Chair. I joined this program because of my admiration for USG and because wanted to engage more with prospective students.
As a first-generation student, I have been able to find that drive and motivation to continue on my path to higher education. Throughout my high school and college careers, I have found a love for helping other first-generation students, and would like to pursue a Master's Degree in Higher Education Administration with a focus in Student Affairs after graduation. I hope to become a mentor to first-generation students so that I can have the same impact on them, as my mentors have had on me. I am so grateful for all of the opportunities I have received at USG and am excited to see what's next.