I grew up just five miles from the Jersey Shore, raised by a single mother who worked two jobs to support our family. We didn't have much but what we lacked in material possessions we made up for in determination! My mother brought me up to be single-mindedly focused on achievement and encouraged me to work hard as I excelled in academics and athletics. Because of this, I became the first in my extended family to attend college, which was only made possible by Bryn Mawr College's need-blind, 100% need-met policies. I feel indebted to my mother for her encouragement and to my alma mater for providing me a pathway to a brighter future. My experiences have developed into an intense passion for helping those from underserved communities feel self-fulfilled and attain personal and professional success.