As Andrea C. “grows up” so to speak, she wants to get a good education and then a good job in computer science — not only for herself, but also to help her parents economically. This Girl on the Rise is currently a junior at the Don Tyson School of Innovation in Springdale, Arkansas. Her dream college, University of Arkansas, happens to be right in the neighborhood, too.

What is something you are most proud of?

I am quite proud of getting a 4 in an AP exam in ninth grade.

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

I have been diagnosed with high-functioning autism. My family also suffered from poverty. But, I have taken these challenges head-on. I persevered and I went to school even though I was quiet and didn’t like loud noises. And, my family started working to get out of poverty, too.

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

Being selected is a huge privilege since we are a low-income family of five. I hope to become a great example for my two younger siblings.

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

I found out about this program through Big Brothers Big Sisters, and I thought it would be helpful since I want to learn how to go to college, earn as many scholarships as possible, and achieve a better future.

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?

The funding will help me reach my goals for the future, because it will help me make a decision about which college to attend.

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

I will visit University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. It is close to my house, and it is the school I am most familiar with.