I’ve always been one who dives into new opportunities. Two years ago, my city decided to create a Youth Advisory Council to connect young residents with our local city government. When I heard of this council, I knew I had to apply. As a newly formed group, we set the precedent for the sort of actions that would be expected of the Youth Advisory Council, which was a difficult but rewarding task. I spent two years on the council; it’s been wonderful to engage with my peers, bringing our generation’s perspective to the local government. One of our goals as a council was to create multiple city-sponsored events that would have a direct impact on the youth in Rowlett. In regards to this specific goal, I’m happy to say that I was heavily involved in the creation of a youth life class called “Adulting 101.” This class was an opportunity for me to not only lead but to create an actual change in the lives of the youth in Rowlett. Creating this class helped me realize just how much my actions can impact those around me. It clarified a statement I overheard from one of my peers years ago, in which she described me as “the mythical black girl genius” of our high school class. This memory always brings a smile to my face. It reminds me that my actions are not solely for myself, but for those around me who may be inspired or otherwise impacted by them. I dive into my work headfirst because I know that my hard work motivates others around me.

Major
Theatre and Dance

Other Academic Interests
Minor in Philosophy of Law

What drew you to the Forty Acres Scholars Program?
This program, unlike other college scholarship programs, focuses on building a community from the get-go. For me, Finalist Weekend was not just a series of informational sessions or an interview process, but a time to get to know UT as a university and to understand the Forty Acres Scholars Program's role in that community. I immediately felt at home upon speaking with current scholars and faculty. The welcoming atmosphere and idea that, as scholars, we would be helping each other grow rather than competing with each other were the main factors that drew me in. Knowing I will have a community of supporters immediately upon entering the university makes me excited to be a part of the Forty Acres Scholars Program.