ADP Scholarship

Growing up in Southwest Baltimore, I witnessed the challenges of living in a low-income community. My peers faced barriers to education and opportunity, which made me realize the importance of capitalizing on any given opportunity. I recently graduated Magna Cum Laude with a GPA of 3.8 from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) with a Bachelor’s of Science in Information Systems. As a first-generation student, this achievement was more than just a degree; it was a step toward my future, and that of others like me. I hope to serve as a role model and inspiration for others to pursue higher education. This fall, I will be attending the University of Maryland, College Park, to pursue a Master’s of Science in Data Science. I plan to specialize in healthcare data, enabling me to help identify and address critical issues within our healthcare system. I aim to utilize data to enhance outcomes for underserved communities and contribute to a more equitable and efficient healthcare system. In addition to my academic goals, I’m also passionate about giving back to the community. I currently volunteer with a nonprofit organization called Thread, which connects volunteers with Baltimore City public school students who were at risk of dropping out. Thread regularly hosts events, maintains contact with all volunteers and young people, and provides resources and workshops to young people in need. As the head of a family volunteer, I mentor two young men and maintain regular contact, providing guidance, helping them navigate obstacles, and attending events together, either hosted by Thread or planned by me. Whether it’s offering guidance or simply showing up when it matters, I aim to be a consistent source of support in their lives. I consider it a privilege to have made it this far, but I recognize that others do not have the same opportunities and resources that I have had. That’s why I believe that if we are in a position to give back, regardless of how small the gesture, it is our responsibility to do so. We don’t need wealth to make a meaningful impact. Listening, helping, and being there can make all the difference. I know I can’t change the world overnight, but if I can help make someone’s day or life a little better, then I’m fulfilling my purpose. That’s my mindset with everybody I encounter. My plan to make a positive impact on the world is to improve the lives of anyone I encounter through volunteering, providing financial support, fostering meaningful connections, offering mentorship, and helping others reach their full potential. I believe the two greatest goals in life are to reach my highest potential and to help others achieve theirs. Although we may not live forever, we leave behind a lasting legacy when we uplift others, creating a chain reaction of kindness, empowerment, and inspiration that lasts for generations. The ADP Scholarship would ease the financial burden of graduate school, enabling me to dedicate more time to my studies and community service. I am grateful to the Pruitt Family for supporting low-income graduate students. I’m inspired and hope to offer scholarships to students one day, paying it forward. Thank you for considering my application and investing in students like me.