What school will you be attending in the Fall?

University of Illinois at Springfield

What Major will you study?

Clinical Medical Laboratory

What is the most important thing you learned in high school?

I learned to have confidence in myself, being proud of who I am, and to greet new opportunities with ambition instead of with apathy or fear.

What is your favorite high school memory?

Going to my last home meet for Track and Field my junior year, because it was amazing to be able to compete and cheer on my teammates at our own school. It felt like I was at a party.

What is your best advice to future first-generation students?

Surround yourself with people who motivate you to become a better version of yourself. Learn from the accomplishments of others and determine what it is you want to strive for.

What is a challenge that you have overcome as a first-generation college student?

A challenge I faced was feeling like I didn't want to leave the comfort of my family and expose myself to new people and situations. Being the first to be exposed to things like FAFSA was a struggle, but I had a lot of resources available to help me.

What does it mean to you to receive the Superintendent’s Scholarship?

To receive this scholarship is the reassurance that my efforts during my high school journey have all been worth it. It motivates me to reach new heights and discover what else I am capable of.