You could probably call Abigail S. an overachiever — in the best way! The dual-enrollment student at Arnold O. Beckman High School in Irvine, California graduates from high school in May 2022 — and her goal is to get a bachelor’s degree in three years or less! She’ll be focused on a STEM-related course of study, possibly in computer science or chemistry and physics. This Girl on the Rise‘s current dream schools include Rice University, UCLA, University of Chicago, and Harvey Mudd College.

What is something you are most proud of?

I am proud of being a dual-enrollment high-school student.

Have you gone through any tough or challenging times? If yes, how did you deal with those challenges?

I have been able to change my thoughts and commit myself to overcoming by any means necessary.

What does it mean to you to be selected as a Girl on the Rise?

It means that my horizons for college exploration have broadened.

What inspired you to want to be involved with Girls on the Rise?

My Big Brothers Big Sisters coordinator prompted me to look into the program. I liked the idea of working with likeminded, driven women.

How will funding from the 1,000 Dreams Fund help you reach your goals? In other words: Why is the opportunity to visit your prospective colleges important to your journey?

It will allow for me to reach for opportunities that I previously had restricted myself from — because I didn’t want to financially burden my parents.

What schools will you use the funding to visit, and why?

Cal Poly Pomona, Harvey Mudd, and San Diego State University — because they are near and desirable. I’ve already visited Rice!