While Micah H. wants to eventually work for one of the top social media platforms, this Girl on the Rise is also passionate about continuing to teach underrepresented girls how to code and computer science skills. The Laurel High School senior is considering Spelman College and Howard University, where she wants to study information technology.

What is something you are most proud of?

I am most proud of becoming the first Black student representative appointed to the Mississippi Department of Education!

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

Whenever challenging times arise, I deal with the obstacles at hand by reminding myself of my purpose in the first place, so I can continue to stay motivated and focused on the end goal. For example: With a team project, I like active communication and accountability, and I start there to deal with any challenges.

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

It means that I have been given the opportunity to defy all odds.

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

I want to make sure that I am doing myself enough justice by expanding my horizons and exploring as many possibilities as I can. I know that Girls on the Rise will help me see the colleges that I want to go to and, hopefully — because of this opportunity — I can encourage other girls to join Girls on the Rise, as well.

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?

I live in a small town with limited opportunities, and I don’t have the resources to visit the schools that I potentially want to go to. So, Girls on the Rise opens doors that I would never have been able to open, which is very important to me and my family.

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

Spelman College and possibly Howard University!