Where are you from? I was born in Danbury, CT -- but when I was a baby we moved to California. I grew up in Orange County, CA until the age of 15 (sophomore in high school) where I then moved to Bristol, CT with my mom to finish high school.
Why did you decide to continue your education at UCONN School of Public Policy? I decided to continue my education with the UConn Department of Public Policy (DPP) because I want to make a difference in the world -- public policy seems like the best way for me to do that! The UConn DPP helped to lift some financial barriers and opened up opportunities for me to go to graduate school. As a first-generation college student, I am very thankful for the opportunity to continue my education at UConn.
What do you do at Hartford Promise? At Hartford Promise, I lend support to a variety of projects. I work with Melissa Paul on the Ambassador program, which is a student run program that lends support to new Promise Scholars at UConn, UHart, and U of St. Joes. We are so excited to expand the Ambassadors program to CCSU and ECSU in upcoming months! Other duties at Hartford Promise include leading social media efforts on Instagram and Facebook along with student outreach. I love to reach out and connect with scholars to see how they’re doing, how online learning is going, and see how Hartford Promise can provide additional support.
Why is it important to be a part of this organization? The more I get involved, the more I love Hartford Promise. Hartford Promise treats students like their own children, telling them to dream big… that their dreams are valid and achievable! And they are!! Higher education has changed the course of my life, and I’ve been very blessed to have a strong village supporting me. I want to give back and help other students achieve their dreams.
What do you want to do after grad school? After graduation, I want to move back to CA for a few years. I want to work with good people doing good things whether that’s in non-profits, local government, or elsewhere, the mission of the organization and values of the people involved is most important to me. Eventually, I want to settle down in CT and create meaningful change working in the public sector. What Scholars should know? Be kind to yourself. We are all learning and going through changes, especially with COVID-19, online learning, and the political election. With all these pressures, self-care is most important. It is OK to get tired and take a night off -- then come back stronger the next day. Don't lose hope. I want all the amazing Promise Scholars to know I’m here to lend support whenever needed, even if you just need to hear someone say, “I believe in you.” Because I truly do believe in Hartford Promise Scholars.
For fun? I love concerts! Really any live music. I enjoy hiking, gardening with my Mimi (my grandma), and going to the beach. The beach is my favorite place!
