Congratulations Class of 2021!! You did it!

Thu, 20 May 2021 23:37:03 -0400

Congratulations to all our First-Generation College Student Graduates!
In honor of May graduation, we'd like to introduce a few of our first-gen grads, in their own words:

Kyle Lowery - B.S. in Mechanical Engineering

Graduating as a First Generation College Student with an engineering degree means the world to me. It opens up prospects of financial security and career mobility I could only have dreamed of. My entire journey has shown me just how powerful an education can be. I would like to thank Dr. Steve Storck, an alumni of UMBC. Interactions were few and far between; through SAE Baja and on tour of JHU's Applied Physics Laboratory. However, each interaction was either inspiring or thought-provoking. Tidbits of guidance that continue to stick with me — especially now, as I set out for fulfilling work in the sciences.

Post-Grad Plans: I will continue search for employment in industry.

Grace Jones - B.A. in Biological Sciences and Gender Women's Studies, Minor in Psychology

Graduating as a first-gen means rewriting the history of my family into one of higher education and limitless career opportunities. To be graduating from UMBC as a First-Gen student is an honor and a privilege, and I am forever grateful. My loving and supportive parents. They made sure I never forgot the importance of perseverance and taught me to never give up on my dreams no matter how hard they may be to achieve.

Post-Grad Plans: Medical School

Shahara Rahman - B.A. in Biological Sciences, Minor in Psychology

Post-Grad Plans: Attending Graduate School, Towson University Occupational Therapy Master's Program starting Fall 2021.

Mariandree Paiz - Social Work, Minor in Psychology

As a Latina first gen student, it means the world to me to be graduating with a BSW. This is not only for me, but this is for my family. This is OUR degree! My ACES and CEO coaches, Jessica and Melissa have supported me tremendously since the very first day I stated at UMBC-USG. I can't thank the ACES and CEO program enough for all of the opportunities they have given me.