With a passion for teaching kids, Samantha D. already knows she wants to be an elementary school teacher. After graduating in May 2023, this Vacaville High School senior and Girl on the Rise will be pursuing her bachelor’s degree in education.

What is something you are most proud of?

I am proud of how much I have improved in school.

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

When I was younger, I was bullied which caused me not to really care about education. But, now, I realize people shouldn’t stop me from accomplishing my dreams.

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

It gives me an opportunity to experience visiting new colleges far and wide — and it gives me a sneak peek into what college life will be like. It also would help with any costs, and I am very grateful for that.

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

My dream of going to college! Also, I’ve been a student in AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) for the last year and a half, and it really inspired me to go to college.

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 think it’s important to know what your college is like — the one you want to attend. What is the weather like, is it private or public, how is the school environment? How would they help you financially? These things are key to know before committing to college; college is very expensive, and there isn’t any time to fool around.

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

I would love to visit Humboldt State University and Chico State University! I think these schools seem very beautiful from their pictures and I would love to see them in real life.