L’Academie de Cuisine in Maryland is one of Susi’s dream schools. That’s because she’s interested in studying culinary arts to go along with a business administration degree. This junior at Dr. Henry A. Wise Junior High School is an entrepreneur at heart, as she wants to have her own business one day.

What is something you are most proud of?

I am proud of finishing my sophomore year with a GPA of 4.25. Also, I am proud of being selected for Girls on the Rise.

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

One challenging thing that I have gone through is that my older brother passed away on July 11, 2019.

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

It means that I have worked a lot and that I can do anything that I put my mind to.

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

What inspired me to be involved is that this program helps girls expand and improve their skills.

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 helps me reach my goals because I will use that money to help me choose what college is right for me. In addition, it will help me buy books I need for class.

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

I am considering Morgan State University, Towson University,  L’Academie de Cuisine, University of Maryland, and Stratford University. I want to make sure they are right for me. Also, if I know if I choose wisely, I can make a difference in my life.