Not only does Tessa feel passionate about pursuing an undergraduate — and possibly graduate-level — degree in biomedical or mechanical engineering, she wants to eventually use her future successful career to give back to her mother and the community. The University Academy senior is currently considering University of Kansas and Mizzou as two of her dream schools, but she’s open to exploring others as she embarks on her final year of high school.

What is something you are most proud of?

I am most proud of being able to maintain a 4.0 GPA this far in my high school career.

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

Yes, I had a rigorous time with my dual credit class last school year. I dealt with that by leaning on the support of my friends, my big sis, and my mother as well as reaching out to the teacher and prior students of the class.

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

Being chosen as a Girl on the Rise shows me that a prominent organization sees the value in me and is willing to aid in my journey to higher education.

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

I saw this as an opportunity to further aid in my path towards higher education.

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 will help me be able to visit colleges or pay for college applications that I otherwise may not be able to afford on my own.

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

So far, I have decided to visit University of Missouri – Colombia, University of Kansas, and Kansas State. But my mind is open to any other schools that may come across my path later on in the school year.