For Joeal A., a senior at UIC College Prep in Chicago, her interests run a diverse gamut from psychology to business to culinary arts! One of her dream schools this Girl on the Rise is considering to take the next step toward her future is University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

What is something you are most proud of?

I’m proud of passing junior year will all As during remote learning — AND during a pandemic.

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

I’ve gone through a good number of challenges, but I dealt with them and overcame them because of my friends. They were a good support and encouraged me to continue.

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

I feel honored and privileged that I’m able to be part of this program.

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

I want to be involved in more communities and find new ways to connect with others.

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?

Being able to visit a college that may be my new home will help me become successful in my college years.

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

I don’t have any specific schools in mind, but I do plan on going to a few.