“I plan on getting my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and becoming an ICU or PICU nurse,” says Alexis A., a senior at Forney High School. In the future, this Girl on the Rise would like to be a travel nurse.

What is something you are most proud of?

I am most proud of how far I’ve come and conquering my fears.

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

I’ve been through many challenging times. I’ve dealt with them by stopping what I’m doing and remembering why I’m here and why I’m continuing to do what I do. I think about what I’m trying to become and where I want to end up in life.

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

It means the absolute world to me to be able to find the best college and have help in this college journey.

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

The mission statement really inspired me to be part of such a wonderful program.

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 help me choose the right school for me, which will help me pursue nursing and get the best knowledge I can to be the most successful.

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

Texas A&M and Baylor. These schools both have a great nursing program and are not too far from home. They also have a water polo team that I would like to join.