When Essence Jones '29 applied to UMBC, she carried big ambitions—but also the weight of financial uncertainty. That changed when she was awarded UMBC’s Best of Baltimore Grant, a Baltimore City initiative, which is a last-dollar award to cover remaining direct educational costs.

With this comprehensive support behind her, the financial barriers that once shaped every decision suddenly lifted. For the first time, she could focus on her education, research, and community involvement without the pressure of juggling multiple jobs or searching endlessly for funding.

A New Academic Freedom

The grant opened doors that Essence once viewed from a distance.

Freed from financial stress, she found herself able to explore new academic paths and research opportunities with confidence.

It even inspired her to think globally. During the pandemic, Essence became curious about international scientific collaboration—curiosity that grew into a potential plan to study abroad in South Korea. What once felt out of reach now feels possible.

Alongside the grant, the College Completion Program supports her, ensuring she stays on track for graduation and reinforcing the commitment to supporting students from start to finish.

Finding Community and Belonging

Beyond academics, the Baltimore City initiative has helped to shape Essence's sense of belonging on campus.

She joined Black Women in Medicine, where she found mentorship, community, and connection. Her Resident Assistant (RA) also became a key support system, helping her navigate campus life and feel at home at UMBC.

These experiences—made possible because she had the stability to be fully present—have helped her build strong relationships and a network of encouragement.

Her Perspective: Gratitude and Growth

For Essence, the impact of the Best of Baltimore Grant is deeply personal. She describes it as meaningful: a source of relief that shifted her focus from "How will I afford this?" to "What do I want to accomplish?"

To those who made this funding possible she offers a simple, powerful message:

"Thank you for seeing me — and for giving me the opportunity to attend and pursue what I truly want."

Without the grant, she says, she would still be scrambling—applying for scholarships, piecing together resources, and balancing financial uncertainty. Instead, she now moves through UMBC with confidence, fully immersed in her studies, her community, and her plans for the future.