Sahera is a junior at Kipp DC College Prep in Washington, D.C. — but, even though she doesn’t graduate until May 2021, she already has big dreams for her next steps. She has her sights set on impressive schools including Princeton, Duke, and Stanford, where she wants to major in computer or electrical engineering before heading to law school.

What is something you are most proud of?

I am proud to have recently been inducted as a member of the National Honor Society.

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

Time management can sometimes be a challenge, and I have sought out advice from teachers on how to more effectively manage my time — in terms of school, sports and extracurricular activities.

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

I am excited to be selected as a Girl on the Rise because it will give me an opportunity to visit various college campuses and to gain an understanding of which schools best suit my needs and interests.

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

My Big Sister [at Big Brothers Big Sisters] encouraged me to apply and her belief in me pushes me to be better. I saw this as a great opportunity to explore possible colleges that I would have never had the chance to visit if it were not for Girls on the Rise.

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?

This opportunity is important to my journey in becoming a well-rounded individual in academics, sports, and other experiences such as study abroad, campus clubs, and more. Visiting prospective colleges allows me to explore all the possible options and opportunities in attaining a great education.

What schools will you use the funding to visit?

Duke and Stanford