It’s all about slam dunks and crunching numbers for Kalaysia R., a junior at St. Luke’s Episcopal School! Not only does this Girl on the Rise have the goal of playing college, pro, and overseas basketball, she also loves the idea of owning her own accounting firm one day.

What is something you are most proud of?

I’m most proud of my determination and academic achievements.

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

Yes, I have. But I focused on what mattered most and let God handle the things I couldn’t control.

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

Honestly, it’s an honor and a privilege to even be looked at and taken seriously. It’s also an opportunity to gain recognition and help my mom with funds.

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

What inspired me was thinking about what I want to be — and how I can work on making it happen in the future. I want to work hard, so my current and future family will never have to worry.

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 see the campus life and decide if I’d like to spend a lot of time at a college. Feeling safe and included in the environment matters to me as I continue toward my dream future. Putting myself on the radar is a big part of this process, too, so visits will help a lot with that along with consistency.

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

Baylor University and North Carolina A&T!