Even though Lily, a senior at Bellevue East High School in Omaha, Nebraska, has faced some serious personal tragedy, she has overcome and pushed through the hard times. It all has set her on the right path to college once she graduates in May 2020; she has her eye on Evergreen State College and Eckerd College, where she plans of majoring in animal sciences, specifically marine biology.

What is something you are most proud of?

I am most proud of my ability to succeed academically.

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

I have gone through a lot of challenges at home including the passing of my dad and my sister along with a struggle with depression. I’ve learned to develop good coping skills and healthy outlets to not let it completely overtake my regular life.

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

It makes me feel very accomplished with myself and I feel good to have such an opportunity.

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

I’m trying to secure as many opportunities as I can in order to succeed and be content with my 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?

It well help me figure out which college is a good fit for me. It’s very important for me to see what will help me not only be successful, but also happy, with my career

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

I plan to visit Evergreen State College and Eckerd College because both are out of state and the funding will help with being able to travel to them.