Where are you from?
Chicago’s southeast side.
Why did you decide to apply to NPEP?
I wanted to increase my knowledge and better myself. I also wanted to achieve something and be a part of something that would bring honor not only to me but to my mother. I also believe that Northwestern is presenting a great opportunity that will be foolish to pass up to expand my thinking and teach me how to better understand things. I am also in need of the challenge that a school like Northwestern brings.
What does being a part of NPEP mean to you?
It means that I am part of an elite group of people with positive goals and great leadership skills. It also means success in the present and future. It also means the love that I am given by my professors and fellow cohort. It’s an opportunity — I am going to receive a bachelor’s degree from a top 10 university and there are many doors that will open for me. It’s a community — meeting new people and building on ideas for progressive change in ourselves and others.
What has been your favorite NPEP reading?
“Humane, Psychological, and Prison Pains.” It presents a lot of things that I deal with, specifically the psychological effects that come from being incarcerated. It helped me understand how to better understand myself and others around me.
What is something you would like others to know about you as a student?
That I am excited, nervous, and hopeful for the future. I am also impressed by the growth that I see in my fellow cohorts and the ability to keep up with the challenges of our classes.
What is a fact about yourself others might find surprising?
I’m not as smart as I look.