DaVonna B. is a junior at Centennial High School in Champaign, Illinois and this Girl on the Rise is focused on attending Parkland College on her path to becoming a Realtor.

What is something you are most proud of?

I’m proud of having good grades — and I’m lucky that my mom helps support me with this!

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

One challenge was almost getting kicked out the house that my family and I lived in.

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

I want to show other girls that you can make it — like I did — if you work hard.

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

I was inspired to have people believe in me.

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 get materials that I need.

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

Parkland.