Scholar Stories: Rosa

Rosa’s dream of becoming a teacher began at age seven, when she helped her grandmother learn to read and write. “Something was born inside me, and I just felt so excited to teach.” Even through significant challenges early in life, Rosa never lost her passion for education or her commitment to helping others learn.

When she began exploring college options, she quickly realized how much she didn’t know.

“I was the first person in my family to attend college, and I didn’t know anything about how to apply, available resources, or what happens after you get accepted,” she shared.

That’s why the New Futures Scholars Program has meant so much to her. “With New Futures, I feel more prepared — not just for college, but for life. My advisor, Molly, has been with me through so much, from my most anxious moments to my greatest successes.”

Rosa believes her strongest qualities — her determination and work ethic — have helped her make the most of every opportunity New Futures offers. “The workshops help you build skills in time management, interviewing, study habits… I had never had the opportunity to develop these skills before, so I found them incredibly helpful as a first-gen college student.”

In 2022, she earned her AA from Montgomery College, and she’s now working toward her bachelor’s degree at the University of Maryland. As she gets closer to graduation, she says she feels “way more confident” about her future.

She’s already putting her training to work, using the interview practice she gained at New Futures workshops to secure multiple jobs in her field.

“I’m gonna be honest. I always get the job now,” she laughs.

“My grandma inspired me to make a difference as a Spanish teacher, and accomplishing that dream would be way harder without New Futures. They’ve shown up for me.”