As a senior at J.C. Harmon High School in Kansas City, Kansas, Monica B. plans on attending college to earn her bachelor’s degree in nursing. A few of this Girl on the Rise‘s dream schools include University of Missouri-Kansas City and Rockhurst University.

What is something you are most proud of?

I’m most proud of myself that I’m graduating my senior year with a 4.0 GPA and receiving a spot in The National Honors Society.

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

I adapted to my circumstances at the time because I knew, in the long run, it would pay off for a better future.

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

It means a lot to me because it is giving me the opportunity to find the college that’s best for me.

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

I wanted to be involved because of how positive the organization is. It allows me to connect with girls who are also striving to have a better 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’s important to my journey because it will give me a deeper understanding of a variety of colleges, allowing me to pick the best fit.

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

University of Missouri-Kansas City, University of Kansas, Wichita State University, and Washburn University.