Why is the University of Maryland special to you?

The University of Maryland is special to me for many reasons. First of all, I will be the first person in my family to graduate from a four-year college. Next, I have learned to be very independent in these past two years while attending UM. Although I still call my mom every night, I have begun to slowly grow into a mature and self-relient young woman. Finally, the people I have met here have changed my life for the better. I have met life-long friends and I can't wait to tell my children the stories of my college days as being a Terp!

What has your scholarship meant to you or enabled you to do?

This scholarship means a great deal to me because I have grown up in a home with one income for many years. My mom was a stay-at-home mom throughout my whole childhood, so my family was supported financially by only my father. Money has always been a burden for us.

What is your favorite quote and why?

Life's a dance, you learn as you go, sometimes you lead, sometimes you follow, don't worry about what you don't know - because I oftentimes get caught up in being right and wanting to be the best, but this quote reminds me that everyone is in the same boat, learning the sames things about life at their own paces.

Who do you admire and find is a source of inspiration to you?

I admire my mother the most out of anyone. She is my best friend, and I respect her greatly for all that she has given up for me and my little brother.

What are your career plans/aspirations?

My career goal is to become an elementary school teacher, go to graduate school, and perhaps become an administrator later in life.

How will you make a positive difference in the world?

I will graduate with a degree in elementary education, and I hope to make a positive difference in the lives of children through my teaching. I hope to inspire my future students to succeed and to reach for their goals. While teaching I hope to help close the achievment gap between minorities, and I hope to expose my students to new cultures and ways of life.