“I aspire to enrich our comprehension of human development and provide support to individuals and families confronting obstacles,” says Kendall R., a 1,000 Dreams Fund Scholarship recipient. Her next step toward her dream? She will be attending Hampton University and majoring in psychology.

What is your professional dream?

My dream is to be a developmental psychologist — with an objective to enhance the well-being of children and families through various means, including: (1) recognizing and tackling developmental hurdles; (2) offering guidance on nurturing parenting techniques; (3) improving educational prospects; (4) fostering mental health and overall wellness; (5) conducting research on child development; and (6) advocating for the rights of children.

How will you use the 1,000 Dreams Scholarship?

Through careful allocation of the funds, I will utilize them to cover educational expenses and invest in professional development opportunities.

How is this scholarship helping you get closer to your dream?

It serves as a stepping stone toward my dream of becoming a developmental psychologist, providing the necessary financial support to pursue my education, gain valuable experiences, and acquire the knowledge and skills needed to make a significant impact in the field.

​What advice do you have for other young women who are wanting to pursue their dreams?

I encourage you to believe in your abilities, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, surround yourself with a supportive network, and never be afraid to voice your ambitions. With passion, perseverance, and a strong sense of self-belief, you can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness in anything.

​Have you had any setbacks? How did you move past them?

Facing the setback of not being able to afford my dream school was incredibly disappointing. However, I refused to let financial limitations define my educational journey. Through extensive research and exploring various scholarship options, I managed to secure enough funding to enroll at Hampton University for Fall 2023, allowing me to pursue my academic and career goals in a supportive and vibrant environment.

What’s next for you? What is your next goal?

My next goal is to smoothly transition into college life at Hampton University by actively engaging in campus activities and seeking opportunities to get involved in student organizations. I am determined to immerse myself in the school and surrounding community, making meaningful connections and contributing to the campus culture through volunteering and leadership roles.