“I never realized how important the resources I received outside of the classroom and the relationships I made with students, faculty, and alumni would be to my success.”
How did your summer experiences clarify your career or academic interests (for example, a Metcalf internship or research opportunity)?
My first internship was an amazing experience that broadened my career interests. I learned more about opportunities in the nonprofit world, and how I can work for a foundation in different programs ranging from the arts to finance. The experience taught me a lot about office culture and helped with my career development. I appreciated the mentors I gained during my summer and the relationships I made that are still great friends and resources to this day.
Please describe how you are choosing your course of study. Have there been clarifying moments in your Core classes or particularly inspiring professors who are helping identify your academic passions?
The students have been a great resource in helping me choose my academic path. I have always been interested in psychology and economics since high school, but the Core curriculum in social sciences and humanities has inspired other passions in sociology and political science. Student organizations have also been a good outlet for me to learn more about my passions in academia.
What activities are you involved with outside the classroom?
Outside of the classroom, I am involved in UC Psych, a student psychology club, which has been a great resource to meet students who share my interest. I work through the Neighborhood Schools Program, which has helped me learn more about the education system in Chicago and has helped me engage with the community. This interest is also present in my involvement in the service fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega, and the Leaders of Color cohort in the Institute of Politics. For career development outside of the classroom, I am a part of the John W. Rogers Internship Program in Finance, as well as the Trott Business Program, otherwise known as UCIB. I’m also fortunate to be a part of the BLK Capital Management Inc., a national organization at selective universities in which I work with black students on equity research stock pitches.
If you could speak directly to the person whose gift supported your scholarship, what would you say?
This scholarship has been an amazing opportunity and has meant more to me than I ever expected. Before, it was just a chance to receive an education from one of the best and most accomplished universities in the world. I never realized how important the resources I received outside of the classroom and the relationships I made with students, faculty, and alumni would be to my success. I’m thankful to be able to challenge myself with a rigorous academic curriculum as well as expand on my opportunities as I choose my career path. This scholarship has given me faith in my future to really follow my dreams. Thank you.
